Working safely in you biological safety cabinet Part 3

Here is Part 3 of this blog series to guide you in working safely in your BSC. 

9. Seek annual certification of your cabinet.

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This ensures cabinet airflows and containment factors are within safe limits. The cabinet should also be re-certified if it is physically relocated to ensure no filter damage has occurred. 

Evaluation of the effectiveness of cabinet containment should include tests for cabinet integrity, HEPA filter leaks, downflow velocity profile, face velocity, negative pressure/ventilation rate, air flow smoke pattern, and alarms and interlocks.

Special training, skills and equipment are required to perform these tests and it is highly recommended that they are undertaken by a qualified professional.

10. Observe surface decontamination.

Decontaminate work zone with cleaning agents after every use. Germicidal UV-lamps are not a substitute for good cleaning practices.

Materials to be placed inside the cabinet should be surface-decontaminated with 70% alcohol.

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All items within BSCs, including equipment, should be surface-decontaminated and removed from the cabinet when work is completed, since residual culture media may provide an opportunity for microbial growth. The work surfaces and interior walls should be wiped with a disinfectant that will kill any microorganisms that might be found inside the cabinet. At the end of the work day, the final surface decontamination should include a wipe-down of the work surface, the sides, back and interior of the glass. A solution of bleach or 70% alcohol should be used where effective for target organisms. A second wiping with sterile water is needed when a corrosive disinfectant, such as bleach, is used.

11. Allow purge cycles.

Leave the blower on (at least 5 minutes) before and after use so as to purge the work zone of any contaminants.

*Purge – to allow time for contaminated air to be removed from the cabinet environment

12. Observe correct sash opening height.

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Always set the sash to the work height when working in the cabinet. If the sash window is fully open or above the normal operating height, it may compromise your safety. 

Always remember, SAFETY FIRST before anything else.