Biosafety Cabinet Classes are an important safety equipment used to protect employees and the environment in laboratory environments where microbiological studies are carried out. The classes of the biosafety cabinet are determined according to the risk levels and working requirements of the microorganisms studied in the laboratories. In this article, detailed information about the biosafety cabinet classes and the characteristics of each class will be provided.
Biosafety cabinet classes provide different levels of protection for the safe performance of microbiological studies. According to international standards, there are generally three classes of biosafety booths:
Class I Biosafety Cabinet: The Class I biosafety cabinet provides air suction to protect the operator and the environment, but does not protect the working area. When using this cabin, the operator must wear personal protective equipment (e.g. gloves, bib). The Class I cabinet is used in laboratories where low-risk microorganisms are studied and where toxic or hazardous substances are not manipulated.
Class II Biosafety Cabinet: The Class II biosafety cabinet provides a more advanced protection that protects the operator, the work area and the environment. The Class II cabin prevents the spread of particles and microorganisms in the work area by using HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters. When using this cabin, the operator must wear personal protective equipment as well as a cleaning suit, which is a special garment that provides an air flow that protects the operator himself. The class II biosafety cabinet is used in laboratories where medium-risk microorganisms are studied and airborne diseases are investigated.
Class III Biosafety Cabin: Class III biosafety cabin is the cabin that provides the highest level of protection. The operator works in a completely closed system and is completely isolated from the contact of microorganisms. The Class III cabin has a vacuum system that prevents airborne particles and microorganisms from completely escaping outside. The operator accesses the cabinet through a glove box and performs manipulations through this box. The Class III biosafety cabinet is used in laboratories where high-risk microorganisms are studied.
Each class of biosafety cabins has certain characteristics and areas of use:
Class I Biosafety Cabin:
It protects the operator and the environment, but does not protect the work area.
It provides air suction, but does not circulate air.
It is used in laboratories where low-risk microorganisms are studied.
It is used in studies where there is no manipulation of toxic or dangerous substances.
Class II Biosafety Cabin:
It protects the operator, the work area and the environment.
It circulates air and uses HEPA filters.
It is used in laboratories where medium-risk microorganisms are studied.
It is used in laboratories where airborne diseases are investigated.
Class III Biosafety Cabin:
It completely isolates the operator.
It completely protects from the contact of microorganisms.
It is used in laboratories where high-risk microorganisms are studied.
It has a vacuum system and is a completely closed system.
Result
Biosafety cabinet classes are an important element for ensuring laboratory safety. Each class is determined according to the risk level of microorganisms and their working requirements. Class I, Class II and Class III biosafety booths differ in their level of protection of the operator, the working area and the environment. Laboratories should select and use the appropriate biosafety cabinet class by conducting a risk analysis and in accordance with the relevant standards. In this way, the safety of microbiological studies and the protection of the environment with laboratory personnel are ensured.