Biosafety Cabinet Use and Maintenance
Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs) are the primary means of containment for working safely with infectious materials and/or aerosol generating procedures. Class II BSCs are designed to provide personnel, product, and environmental protection by using high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in their exhaust and supply systems.
Class II BSCs have:
- an open front with inward airflow for personnel protection
- downward HEPA-filtered laminar airflow over the work surface, for product protection
- HEPA-filtered exhaust air for environmental protection
There are four types of Class II BSCs (A1, A2, B1 and B2) based on their construction, airflow velocities and patterns and exhaust systems. For more detailed information on BSC design and operation, take the online Biological Safety Cabinet training.
Field Testing and Certification
Biosafety cabinets should not be used for any type of work unless there is a current certification label attached. If the unit is not certified, contact the Institutional Biosafety Officer at 292-1284 for assistance in locating a qualified certification contractor.
BSCs should be certified:
- Upon installation
- Any time they are moved or relocated
- After a major repair
- Annually
BSCs must be gas decontaminated by a qualified contractor prior to moving or disposal. Contact EHS for assistance.