Biological safety cabinets - Kewaunee

In laboratories where handling infectious agents, hazardous materials, and biological samples is routine, maintaining a safe and sterile environment is crucial. Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs) are essential pieces of equipment designed to protect laboratory personnel, the environment, and the integrity of sensitive samples. Kewaunee, a leader in laboratory equipment manufacturing, offers a comprehensive range of Class II Biological Safety Cabinets, designed with advanced safety features and ergonomic efficiency.

What Are Biological Safety Cabinets?

Biological Safety Cabinets are specialized ventilated enclosures that provide a contained workspace for handling biological materials. They work by controlling the airflow to prevent the escape of potentially hazardous biological agents into the laboratory environment. BSCs are designed to protect:

• Personnel: By creating a barrier that prevents hazardous particles from reaching the user.
• Environment: By ensuring that contaminated air is filtered and safely vented.
• Products: By maintaining a sterile environment to prevent sample contamination.

Types of Kewaunee's Biological Safety Cabinets

Kewaunee offers a variety of Class II BSCs designed to meet the needs of different laboratory applications. These include:

1. Class II Type A2 Biosafety Cabinets:

   • Suitable for work with biological agents that require primary containment.
   • Recirculates 70% of the air through a HEPA filter, with 30% exhausted to the environment after filtration.

2. Class II Type B2 Biosafety Cabinets:

   • Designed for work with hazardous chemicals and biological agents.
   • Provides 100% exhausted airflow, ensuring that all contaminated air is safely vented outside the building.

Key Features of Kewaunee’s Biological Safety Cabinets

• High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters:
  Ensures that 99.97% of airborne particles, including pathogens, are captured for maximum protection.

• Advanced Airflow Design:
  Maintains a consistent airflow pattern to protect the user, the sample, and the environment simultaneously.

• User-Friendly Interface:
  Equipped with intuitive controls for easy operation, monitoring, and maintenance.

• Ergonomic Design:
  Adjustable work surfaces and easy-to-access compartments enhance user comfort during prolonged use.

• Energy-Efficient Lighting:
  LED lighting reduces energy consumption while providing clear visibility of the work area.

• Durable Construction:
  Made from corrosion-resistant materials that are easy to clean and maintain, ensuring long-term durability.

Applications of Kewaunee's Biological Safety Cabinets

Kewaunee’s BSCs are versatile and widely used across various industries:

• Healthcare and Clinical Laboratories:
  For processing patient samples and diagnostic tests with strict contamination control.

• Pharmaceutical Research and Development:
  Handling active pharmaceutical ingredients and sterile formulations.

• Microbiological Research:
  Working with pathogenic microorganisms and genetically modified organisms.

• Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering:
  Providing a safe environment for recombinant DNA work and cell culture experiments.

Safety and Compliance

Kewaunee’s Biological Safety Cabinets are designed to meet international safety standards, including:

• NSF/ANSI 49:
  Ensures performance requirements for Class II BSCs, including airflow patterns and containment efficiency.

• UL 61010-1:
  Certifies electrical safety standards for laboratory equipment, ensuring safe operation under various conditions.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the continued effectiveness of Kewaunee’s BSCs. This includes:

• Routine Filter Replacement:
  HEPA filters should be replaced as per the manufacturer’s guidelines to maintain optimal airflow.

• Regular Cleaning and Disinfection:
  Periodic cleaning of the cabinet’s interior and exterior to prevent contamination buildup.

• Airflow Testing:
  Regular checks to verify that airflow rates meet safety standards.

Conclusion

Kewaunee’s Biological Safety Cabinets provide a reliable, safe, and efficient solution for laboratories handling biological agents and hazardous materials. With advanced features designed to protect personnel, the environment, and samples, these cabinets are ideal for a wide range of scientific and clinical applications. Their commitment to quality, safety, and innovation ensures that laboratories can maintain the highest standards of biosafety and operational excellence.