A Comprehensive Guide to Maximizing Safety While Using Biological Safety Cabinets

Biological safety cabinets (BSCs) are widely used tools in laboratories for protecting both the researcher and the integrity of the product or experiment. However, using BSC’s improperly can lead to contaminated cultures and potential exposure of laboratory personnel to infectious organisms. To ensure safe and effective use of BioSafety Cabinets, it’s essential to follow specific guidelines and procedures. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to maximize safety when using biological safety cabinets.

Understanding BioSafety Cabinet Functionality

Before diving into the details, let’s briefly understand how a BioSafety Cabinet functions. These cabinets work by creating a controlled environment with a protective air barrier. The room air is drawn into the cabinet, mixed with recirculating air, and then filtered through a HEPA filter before flowing downward onto the work surface, creating a contamination-free zone.

Precautions Before Using Biological Safety Cabinets

Always start by wearing the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), including a lab coat, gloves, and safety glasses. Place all materials and equipment inside the cabinet before starting work to minimize disruptions and maintain the cabinet’s integrity.

Startup Procedures

Follow these steps to safely start up a biological safety cabinet:

• Turn off the ultraviolet sterilizer (if equipped) upon entering the room.
• Turn on all blowers and cabinet illumination lights.
• Allow the cabinet to operate for at least 5 minutes to purge the system and check flow alarms.
• Decontaminate accessible interior surfaces with an appropriate disinfectant.

Standard Operating Procedures When Using Biological Safety Cabinets

To maintain airflow and ensure safety while operating a BSC:

• Never use the ultraviolet light while working inside the cabinet to avoid eye and skin damage.
• Avoid disrupting airflow by minimizing movements in and out of the cabinet.
• Do not block the front grill or rear vents with arms or materials.
• Maintain a distance of at least 4 inches from the front vent edge.

Special Precautions for UV Lamps

Use caution when dealing with UV lamps in BSCs:

• Post warning signs indicating UV light hazards.
• Be aware of UV exposure risks, including eye and skin burns.
• Understand the limitations of UV disinfection and use alternative methods for effective decontamination.

Operating in the BSC

Follow these best practices while working inside a biological safety cabinet:

• Wear PPE consistently, including a buttoned-up lab coat and gloves.
• Plan and bring only necessary items into the cabinet.
• Work at least 6 inches inside the cabinet, maintaining a clean-to-dirty workflow.

Things to Avoid When Using Biological Safety Cabinets

To ensure optimal performance and safety, avoid the following:

• Relying solely on UV light for decontamination.
• Using corrosive disinfectants that can damage the BSC.
• Blocking air intake grills or cluttering the work surface.
• Using open flames or flammable chemicals inside the cabinet.

Biosafety Cabinet Protocol Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist summarizing essential points for safe BSC usage:

1. Ensure proper airflow and avoid working with air flow problems.
2. Separate clean and dirty items inside the cabinet.
3. Keep intake air grilles clear and disinfect items before removing them.
4. Dispose of waste properly and keep the cabinet top clear.
5. Use the correct sash height and handle UV lights safely.
6. Avoid open flames and volatile chemicals inside the BSC.

You can also find a comprehensive & printable checklist for safely using a BioSafety Cabinet through the CDC website located here: BSC-Checklist.pdf (cdc.gov)

In conclusion, by adhering to these guidelines and best practices, you can maximize safety and efficiency when using biological safety cabinets cabinet in the laboratory. Remember, the proper use of a BSC not only protects your experiments but also safeguards your health and that of your colleagues. If you have any questions or need further guidance, contact your laboratory safety coordinator/biosafety officer or you can fill out the contact form below to contact LabRepCo.