13 Safety, Hazard Containment & Sterilising Equipment


BSC manufacturer considerations and overall conclusions


Although it may be tempting to ask your BSC manufacturer to select your BSC, this approach is likely to fail to meet your organisation’s needs. The manufacturer does not understand all the factors that went into your risk assessment, proposed future work, and the risk tolerance of your organisation. The manufacturer can help with the selection of a model and relevant features that will complement your risk mitigation strategies after your risk assessment is completed.


Conducting a risk assessment for work with biological materials is the critical fi rst step in evaluating laboratory activities and their risks to health and safety. A multi-layered approach of control measures based on NIOSH’s hierarchy of controls should be selected where engineering controls (including BSCs) may be identifi ed as one part of an overall risk reduction strategy.


About the author


Julianne L. Baron is the President of Science and Safety Consulting. She has a background in infectious diseases, biosafety, and public health and consults on laboratory safety and design, pandemic preparedness, and scientifi c communication.


Science and Safety Consulting provides biosafety and biorisk guidance and training to facilitate safe and secure biological research and to prepare organisations for infectious diseases and pandemics. Science and Safety Consulting also facilitates successful scientifi c communication for technical and non-technical audiences.


Connect with an Expert: www.scienceandsafetyconsulting.com Read, Share and Comment on this Article, visit: www.labmate-online.com Affordable and innovative laboratory autoclaves


LTE Scientific are delighted to announce the launch of its latest line, the Touchclave-V series of laboratory autoclaves. The Touchclave-V series offer a cost-effective solution capable of processing most laboratory applications. Designed with simplicity in mind the Touchclave-V range is a top-loading cylindrical chambered autoclave which comes in 2 standard sizes of 50 and 80-litre capacities. The range consists of 2 models with each offering more expediency allowing for a greater range of applications to be processed.


Both models sterilise using an in-chamber heater to generate steam and operate between temperatures of 115oC to 134oC with the V+ Dry model having an extended range of 105-134oC. Starting with the most economical model, the Touchclave-V+ has an advanced control panel with touchscreen controls and the ability to store up to 10 cycles for ease of use, this also has the facility to store cycle data. The most advanced model, the Touchclave-V+ Dry comes with touchscreen control panel, internal data archiving and USB connection for data extraction, plus built-in vacuum allowing for faster cycle times and the processing of more load types where effective air removal and drying are important.


LTE’s Touchclave-V range is ideal for placement within any laboratory thanks to its small footprint and in-chamber heating with manual water fill and waste-water tank connection. Designed with end users in mind all Touchclave-V models offer users an easy-to-use autoclave with accessible control systems and all at an economic price.


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References


1. CDC/NIH Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL) 6th Edition: https://www.cdc.gov/labs/BMBL.html


2. NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules (NIH Guidelines): https://osp.od.nih.gov/policies/biosafety-and-biosecurity-policy#tab2/


3. WHO Laboratory Biosafety Manual: Risk Assessment monograph: https://www.who.int/ publications/i/item/9789240011458


4. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Hierarchy of Controls: https:// www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/hierarchy/default.html


5. WHO Laboratory Biosafety Manual: Biological Safety Cabinets and Other Primary Containment Devices monograph: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240011335


6. NSF/ANSI 49-2022 Biosafety Cabinetry: Design, Construction, Performance, and Field Certifi cation Informative Annex I-1: https://webstore.ansi.org/standards/nsf/ nsfansi492022annex


Advanced solution for component protection


Acrylic Desiccators from Plas Labs provide a breakthrough solution designed to protect critical materials, research specimens, and sensitive electronic components from contamination. These advanced desiccators offer unparalleled protection, convenience, and visibility, transforming the storage and transportation of valuable assets.


The Acrylic Desiccators are meticulously engineered to create a dust and moisture-free environment, ensuring the integrity and longevity of stored components. By employing a slight positive N2 charge, these units effectively prevent moisture penetration, extending the lifespan of valuable components. The amber-coloured units (CGA) provide exceptional protection against harmful UV rays for light-sensitive materials.


Featuring stackable and non-slip ‘grip tight’ feet, Acrylic Desiccators offer space-saving storage with stability. The standardised construction allows for easy shelf interchangeability, optimising organisation and space utilisation. Perforated slots on each shelf enable optimum gas circulation, ensuring a uniform protective atmosphere within the desiccator.


To enhance structural integrity, desiccators with multiple cubicles have a built-in divider, providing added strength for stored materials. Constructed with optically clear ‘jewelled’ acrylic, these units offer excellent visibility without compromising durability.


Convenience is paramount. Slip-apart hinges and spring-loaded sealing clamps ensure easy and secure access. A built-in hygrometer (Rh) gauge enables precise humidity monitoring for optimal storage conditions. The desiccators also feature ‘door guards’ to prevent warping and internal atmosphere loss.


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