Biosafety Cabinet Usage Guidelines
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Before initial use of the Biosafety Cabinet (BSC), all users must complete the BSC training. Please contact the Office of Research Safety (ORS) to receive access to this training.
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Before working in the BSC, make sure it has been certified and the certification is current.
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Do not use the BSC if any alarms are activated.
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Use of hazardous chemicals or open flames are STRICTLY prohibited inside the BSC.
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Do not use the BSC as a storage area. Overcrowding the BSC with unnecessary items can affect airflow and containment.
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When working in the BSC, proper PPE is required. At minimum a lab coat and gloves should be worn.
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Decontaminate BSC interior before and after each use with an approved disinfectant.
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Always open sash to correct working height.
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Always use proper aseptic technique.
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At least daily, or each time the cabinet is operated, the operator or user should observe the magnehelic gauge and note its relative position. Magnehelic gauges measure the pressure drop across the outlet HEPA filter and are important indicators of filter integrity and loading. The gauge will typically indicate the same measurement over a long period of time. A significant change in the reading over a short period of time may indicate clogging or a leaking filter. In such cases, the hood should not be used until the problem is identified and resolved. If the BSC located within a laboratory does not have a magnehelic gauge, users must understand the operation of the airflow monitor, controls, and alarm settings.
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For additional guidelines please use the BSC Checklist for daily BSC operation.