Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Biosafety Cabinets
Ensure Containment, Airflow Integrity, and Operator Safety
Used and refurbished biosafety cabinets (BSCs) from American Instrument Exchange are thoroughly tested to ensure they meet NSF/ANSI 49 performance standards for containment, airflow uniformity, and HEPA filtration. Each Class I, II, or III unit is evaluated through a series of specialized inspections and certifications, ensuring the cabinet performs reliably in research, clinical, and pharmaceutical lab environments.
Why Testing Used Biosafety Cabinets Is Essential
Before any biosafety cabinet is deployed in a working lab, it must be tested for:
• HEPA filter integrity and leak-free performance
• Inflow and downflow air velocity balance
• Containment efficiency and personnel protection
• Electrical system function and safety compliance
• Cleanliness and readiness for sterile applications
Proper testing of refurbished biosafety cabinets helps prevent cross-contamination, exposure to hazardous materials, and airflow disruption—critical for maintaining laboratory protocols. Our structured multi-point BSC testing protocol ensures dependable protection for operators, products, and the lab environment.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Biosafety Cabinets
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Inspect exterior panels, window sashes, hinges, and seals for signs of wear or damage
• Confirm visibility and integrity of the viewing window
• Check power cords, display screens, and control interfaces for usability
2. Cabinet Decontamination and Cleaning
• Interior and exterior cleaned with non-corrosive disinfectants
• Decontamination protocols followed to remove biological contaminants
• Work surface, sidewalls, and return air grills are fully sanitized
3. HEPA Filter Integrity Testing (DOP/PAO Leak Test)
• Conduct aerosol challenge test using PAO or DOP to verify HEPA filter seal integrity
• Identify and resolve any filter leaks in accordance with NSF/ANSI 49 standards
• Ensure HEPA filters are correctly seated and uncompromised
4. Inflow and Downflow Velocity Testing
• Measure air velocities using calibrated thermo-anemometers
• Confirm inflow velocity meets requirements
• Verify downflow uniformity within the work zone to prevent turbulence and contamination
5. Airflow Smoke Pattern Testing
• Conduct visual smoke tests to demonstrate laminar airflow and containment
• Confirm that airflow barriers prevent cross-contamination and exposure
6. Electrical Safety and Alarm System Checks
• Inspect grounding, insulation resistance, and GFCI protection
• Test alarm functionality for sash position, airflow disruption, and power failure
• Verify interior lighting, outlets, and blower controls operate reliably
7. Final Certification and Quality Assurance
• Run full performance test cycle and confirm compliance with NSF/ANSI 49 and manufacturer specs
• Document data and generate a detailed service report
Guaranteed Performance from American Instrument Exchange
All refurbished biosafety cabinets from American Instrument Exchange are tested and verified to ensure maximum containment, user protection, and airflow performance. Whether used for microbiology, tissue culture, pharmaceutical compounding, or other work necessitating containment, our BSCs meet industry standards—so your team can work safely and confidently from day one.