The biological safety cabinets also known as microbiological safety cabinets are specifically designed to offer researchers and technicians ventilated yet contained environments to protect them from toxic materials that can infect them. These cabinets also protect the environment and samples from potential contamination risks from harmful agents. The old versions of these enclosures had simple on/off switches. However, the advanced models offer various safety and security features and a high-end monitoring mechanism, like sensors that track window position, airflow pattern, motor function, etc. Because of the most desired transformation, these cabinets are used in industrial, hospital, and research labs globally today. They allow personnel to conduct research, develop treatments, perform diagnostics, and prepare drugs. Choose only those built under strict regulatory requirements and established industry standards to make the most of them.
Biological safety cabinets (BSCs)
How do you choose bio safety cabinets for your projects? These essential lab equipment pieces are designed to handle risky substances and agents. They must be controlled to minimize or avoid harmful effects. If you choose one with all the favorable specifications and install it correctly, you can expect your staff, lab environment, and samples to be safe. You can work with bodily fluids, bacteria, and viruses in the microbiological cabinets while avoiding the associated risks. So, whether you want to replace an old cabinet or it's your first time with this equipment, consider the following points.
BSCs by classification
The cabinet choice should match your project requirements, which are determined by the type of biohazard safety threat it involves. You must analyze the hazards, exposure risks, dose-response, etc. These will direct you to the kind of cabinet needed for a certain level of protection. For example, low to medium-risk applications mainly demand protection for people and their surroundings. Contamination risk is very low. So, the Class I variant can be suitable here. You must choose Class 2 to protect samples, environments, and staff. The Class 3 option can handle highly contaminated agents. Hence, you can consider it to offer maximum security to your people and the work environment.
BSCs by material
You get metal and metal-free choices. Metal cabinets are typically made from 304 stainless steel, while metal-free designs use polypropylene. Focus on the type of hazard you work with before considering the biosafety cabinet body or surface. If you want a chemical-resistant and corrosion-safe choice, polypropylene can be the best. It is also lightweight. At the same time, you must also look at the cabinet size, available in the width range of 1830mm, 1525mm, 1220mm, and 915mm. Check other dimension details, too.
BSC base
Another essential characteristic is height. You get bench-mounted to manual height adjustment options. If you prefer convenience, opt for something that lets you adjust its height. It will allow the staff to work while sitting or standing.
Buying lab equipment can be challenging because of several factors. However, your decision can be easy when you find options certified by international agencies for safety and security. For instance, cabinets built after NSF/ANSI 49 standards can be easily trusted. They are approved by independent organizations only after passing stringent construction and safety evaluations.
