Biosafety Cabinet (BSC)
A biosafety cabinet is a critical laboratory equipment designed to
protect operators, experimental samples, and the environment from
hazardous biological agents. Classified as a Class III medical
device, it utilizes a negative-pressure air purification system and
HEPA filtration to prevent the spread of harmful microbial aerosols
generated during experiments.
Core Functions
The biosafety cabinet provides three layers of protection:
- Operator Protection: HEPA filters capture 99.99% of bacteria and viruses, preventing
aerosol leakage.
- Sample Protection: A vertical laminar airflow barrier maintains sterility by
blocking external contaminants.
- Environmental Protection: Negative pressure ensures unidirectional airflow, containing
hazardous materials within the cabinet.
Operational Guidelines
- Startup: Power on, activate lighting and fan, then raise the sash to the
marked line after the indicator turns yellow.
- Procedures: Minimize items inside to avoid disrupting airflow; move arms
slowly and wait for airflow stabilization.
- Prohibitions: Open flames (e.g., alcohol burners) are strictly prohibited—use
infrared sterilizers instead.
- Maintenance: Disinfect surfaces with 75% ethanol before/after use; replace
filters regularly and monitor airflow velocity.
Key Difference from Laminar Flow Hood
Biosafety cabinets protect personnel, samples, and the environment, while laminar flow hoods only protect samples (not operators). Therefore, biosafety cabinets are mandatory for
handling infectious materials.
