Analysis of Laboratory Biological Safety Cabinets

1. Definition and Classification

A ‌Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC)‌ is an air-purification device that utilizes negative pressure control and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration to prevent the dispersion of biohazardous particles. Its primary function is to minimize aerosol contamination and protect personnel and the environment during experiments involving hazardous biological agents

• ‌Classification by Protection Level‌:
  • ‌Class I‌: Protects only the operator, suitable for low-risk experiments
  • ‌Class II‌ (most common): Protects personnel, samples, and the environment. Subtypes include A1, A2, B1, and B2, used for pathogen research, cell culture, etc.
  • ‌Class III‌: Fully enclosed system for handling high-risk biological materials (e.g., lethal viruses)

2. Core Functions and Technical Features

1. ‌Core Functions‌:

   • ‌Personnel Protection‌: Negative airflow and HEPA filters block harmful microorganisms
   • ‌Sample Protection‌: Prevents external contaminants from entering the workspace
   • ‌Environmental Safety‌: Filters exhaust air to reduce ecological contamination

2. ‌Key Technologies‌:

   • ‌HEPA Filtration‌: ≥99.99% efficiency for 0.3μm particles
   • ‌Smart Airflow Control‌: Real-time monitoring and airflow stabilization
   • ‌Energy Efficiency‌: Low noise (<60 dB), energy-saving fans, and lighting

3. Typical Applications

• ‌Healthcare & Disease Control‌: Pathogen detection, vaccine development
• ‌Biopharmaceuticals‌: Sterile drug production, cell therapy
• ‌Scientific Research‌: Gene editing, microbial culture
• ‌Food & Environmental Testing‌: Analysis of harmful microorganisms

4. Selection and Maintenance Guidelines

1. ‌Selection Criteria‌:

   • Match BSC class to experiment risk (e.g., Class II A2 for routine cell cultures)
   • Prioritize models with smart monitoring (e.g., airflow alarms) and easy cleaning

2. ‌Maintenance Protocols‌:

   • ‌Regular Testing‌: Annual HEPA filter integrity checks
   • ‌Operational Standards‌: Avoid overloading; disinfect with UV light or chemicals before/after use
   • ‌Troubleshooting‌: Immediate shutdown if airflow anomalies or filter blockages occur