Surface Decontamination in a Biosafety Cabinet

This white paper discusses the importance of decontaminating biosafety cabinets (BSCs) before and after use, selecting appropriate disinfectants, and techniques for effective decontamination. Decontamination ensures that the BSC's work zone is free from contamination and maintains HEPA-filtered air quality. Different microorganisms require different disinfectants based on their resistance levels. A risk assessment should be conducted to choose a suitable disinfectant for the microorganisms used. Material compatibility is crucial when using corrosive disinfectants, such as chlorine bleach, which may require additional steps to remove residues and prevent damage to the BSC. Following proper decontamination procedures helps maintain a safe and clean environment for handling biological materials.