An automated system to identify, analyze and record information associated with disinfection and/or sterilization procedures. Individual processing and client devices communicate via a computer network. The client devices such as desktop computers terminals, hand-held devices and/or process devices such as sterilizers, autoclaves, washing and/or disinfection devices are distributed among a health care facility more specifically disinfection and/or sterilization facilities that require processing of surgical instruments. The network server exchanges a variety of information with client devices as well as disinfection and/or sterilization equipment. In response to information from equipment and/or client devices, the network server may trigger decision messages to equipment and/or client devices, as well as generate reports for record keeping or maintenance purposes. The information distributed by the network server may pertain to the operation, maintenance and control of disinfection and sterilization equipment, characteristics and capabilities of instruments, and expert technical advice. The information received from the health care facilities includes requests for information, and process information documenting procedures performed within a health care, disinfection and/or sterilization facility.