Top 5 signs that you should service or replace your biosafety cabinet

From the previous blogs, we've tackled about what you should look for when buying a new biosafety cabinet. 

But why do you need to buy a new BSC in the first place? 

Here are the Top 5 Signs that you should service or replace your biosafety cabinet. Check this out.

Photo credits from:
https://www.facebook.com/EscoBiologicalSafetyCabinets1

1. The stainless steel interior is showing signs of rust or pitting. Ooops, when you find this in your biosafety cabinet, it is time to replace your BSC. Rough surfaces (rusted) can harbor contaminants, and worst, hazardous contaminants. For sure, you don't want your samples to be cross-contaminated with rust and other particles. Moreover, rusted surface is hard to clean and decontaminate. So hassle and unsafe. 
2. Any time an alarm sounds and does not self-correct. Are you aware that there is a thin line between life and death (a little bit exaggerated, right?) when it comes to a biosafety cabinet's alarm? Because an alarm tells you there is something wrong in your biosafety cabinet, and it may signify imminent danger to you and your environment. That is why we encourage you to seek certification, at least annually, to ensure that your cabinet is performing as expected.
3. Is the BSC still supported by the manufacturer, are parts still available? This is what we call obsolete biosafety cabinets. It is time to give up your biosafety cabinet. Surely, you already got your money's worth. There are many available biosafety cabinets in the market with exciting and up-to-date features that may not be present in your biosafety cabinet. 
4. The BSC no longer passes its annual certification. Well, we have already discussed the importance of certifications. (See blog: Why you should not buy a Non-Certified Biological Safety Cabinet?; What to look for in a biosafety cabinet? 2. Excellent Performance). And I quote, "the use of non-certified BSCs, technically, beats the purpose of using one."
5. The BSC no longer meets current performance criteria. Well, the reason is just the same as no. 4.

Remember, a biosafety cabinet that performs well is important in ensuring that you and your environment are safe.