Tips for Using Biosafety Cabinets

DO

• Operate the cabinet for 10 minutes before beginning work.
• Wipe down the cabinet with disinfectant before and after use.
• Verify inward air flow before beginning work.
• Keep front and rear grills clear to keep air flowing properly.
• Use absorbent pads or trays on the work surface to contain spills.
• Wear gloves and lab coat when working in the cabinet.
• Plan your work in advance, load all supplies in cabinet before beginning work.
• Minimize arm movements in and out of the cabinet.
• Adjust the seat height so that you can work comfortably.
• Work from clean side to dirty side.
• Keep a discard tray or waste bag inside of the hood.
• Practice good microbiological technique.
• Use sterile disposable loops instead of open flame for sterilizing loops.
• Allow the cabinet to purge for 10 minutes before shutting off.

DON'T

• Use open flames (bunsen burner) in the cabinet.
• Use excessive amounts of flammable solvents in the cabinet.
• Leave the UV light on when the lab is occupied.
• Put items on top of the cabinet, exhaust can be blocked.
• Locate cabinets in high traffic areas.
• Disable flow and sash alarms
  

Contact
	Overall Program Management - Greg Lupinski, or call (732) 445 - 2550