BioSafety Cabinets (BSC) are designed to protect the users, product and surrounding environment in research and pharmaceutical applications. Although this does protect the user from harmful contaminants, the user must still practice safe ergonomic practices while operating in a BSC. One of the main safety features of a BioSafety Cabinet is the window sash, but what’s most important about this feature is the height it is located at.
What is a BioSafety Cabinet Window Sash?
A window sash is a fixed or adjustable window on the front of a BSC that protects workers from the active work area. A certification for a BioSafety Cabinet will be based upon where the window sash is positioned at specific heights (typically 8, 10, or 12 inches) due to the potential impacts on downflow and inflow velocities.
Most BSC’s will come with a notification of where the window should be placed during work activities and some cabinets even come with an alarm that will alert the user if the window is not aligned properly.
Why is the Window Sash on a BioSafety Cabinet Important?
The window sash positioning on a BSC is one of the most vital details about Biological Safety Cabinets. The BSC’s job is focused on keeping contaminated air from entering the work zone and into the laboratory as well as minimize cross-contamination within the work zone through unidirectional air. This process depends on the cabinet maintaining a balance between inflow and downflow velocities. If the window sash is at an incorrect level you compromise airflow balancing which can leak contaminated air into the sterile work area and contaminate the work and it can also leak out into the laboratory atmosphere.
NuAire BioSafety Cabinets: Window Sash Installation
Before a BSC leaves the NuAire factory it will go through testing that includes airflow balancing placing the workable sash height at the level you requested 8, 10, or 12 inches. A professional in the field will then certify your cabinet after installation at the window sash height you requested.
All NuAire BioSafety Cabinets feature the most durable & ergonomic-friendly solutions in the industry. For more information on how NuAire BioSafety Cabinets can benefit your research and your users health, contact us today or click here to view a full selection of NuAire BioSafety Cabinets.
