5 Questions
What is the primary purpose of a biosafety cabinet (BSC)?
To protect the laboratory worker and the environment from pathogens
How is the exhaust air treated in a biosafety cabinet (BSC)?
It is HEPA-filtered before exiting the cabinet
What differentiates a biosafety cabinet (BSC) from a laminar flow clean bench?
BSC exhaust air is HEPA-filtered, while clean bench exhaust air is unfiltered
What is the primary function of HEPA filtration in a biosafety cabinet (BSC)?
Removing harmful bacteria and viruses from the exhaust air
Why is a fume hood not a suitable alternative to a biosafety cabinet (BSC) for working with pathogens?
A fume hood fails to provide the environmental protection that HEPA filtration in a BSC would provide
Study Notes
Biosafety Cabinet (BSC) Overview
- The primary purpose of a biosafety cabinet (BSC) is to provide a safe working environment for handling pathogens and other biohazardous materials.
Exhaust Air Treatment
- The exhaust air in a biosafety cabinet (BSC) is treated with HEPA filtration to remove airborne contaminants and particulate matter.
Differentiation from Laminar Flow Clean Bench
- A biosafety cabinet (BSC) differs from a laminar flow clean bench in that it provides both product protection and personnel protection, whereas a laminar flow clean bench only provides product protection.
HEPA Filtration
- The primary function of HEPA filtration in a biosafety cabinet (BSC) is to capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, ensuring the removal of airborne contaminants and particulate matter.
Comparison to Fume Hood
- A fume hood is not a suitable alternative to a biosafety cabinet (BSC) for working with pathogens because it is designed to capture chemical vapors and fumes, not airborne pathogens, and does not provide personnel protection.
Test your knowledge of biosafety cabinets with this quiz! Learn about the different types of BSCs and their functions in laboratory work. See how much you know about biosafety levels and working with pathogens in a safe and controlled environment.
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