biosäkerhetsbänk

A biosäkerhetsbänk, also known as a biological safety cabinet (BSC), is a ventilated enclosure used in laboratories to protect personnel from hazardous microorganisms, protect the experiment from contamination, and protect the environment from the escape of aerosols containing infectious agents. It achieves this by creating a sterile work environment and using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to remove airborne particles.

There are three main classes of biosäkerhetsbänkar, each offering a different level of protection. Class I cabinets provide personnel and environmental protection but not product protection. Class II cabinets offer all three types of protection and are the most common type used in molecular biology and cell culture laboratories. Class III cabinets provide the highest level of protection for both personnel and product, featuring a gas-tight enclosure with glove ports for manipulation of materials.

The operation of a biosäkerhetsbänk involves drawing air in from the front opening, passing it through HEPA filters, and exhausting it either back into the room or outdoors. The airflow patterns are critical to maintaining containment and preventing cross-contamination. Proper usage of a biosäkerhetsbänk includes maintaining good laboratory practices, such as working at least 15 cm inside the opening and avoiding rapid movements that can disrupt the airflow. Regular maintenance and certification of the cabinet are essential to ensure its continued effectiveness. Biosäkerhetsbänkar are crucial for public health and research safety, enabling work with potentially infectious agents in a controlled and safe manner.