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In the operation of modern laboratories, biosafety cabinets (BSCs) have become one of the core pieces of equipment for ensuring personnel safety, protecting the environment, and preventing the spread of pathogens. Whether in biomedical research, pharmaceutical manufacturing, pathology analysis, or environmental monitoring, biosafety cabinets play an irreplaceable role.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the applicable scenarios of biosafety cabinets, helping laboratory managers, equipment procurement officers, and researchers better understand their functions and importance.

I. Basic Functions of Biosafety Cabinets

A biosafety cabinet is a device designed for handling hazardous materials, particularly biological hazards. Its main functions include:

• Protection of personnel
  Biosafety cabinets effectively prevent harmful gases, microorganisms, or viruses generated during experiments from spreading through the air and infecting operators.

• Protection of samples
  Through high-efficiency filtration systems, biosafety cabinets ensure that experimental samples are not contaminated by external air.

• Environmental protection
  The exhaust system of a biosafety cabinet prevents pathogens from being released into the external laboratory environment, safeguarding surrounding air quality.

II. Applicable Scenarios for Different Types of Biosafety Cabinets

Biosafety cabinets are generally classified into Class I, Class II, and Class III, each suitable for different laboratory environments.

1. Class I Biosafety Cabinet

Class I biosafety cabinets are the most basic type and are suitable for low-risk laboratory environments. They are mainly used for handling non-hazardous samples, such as cell culture and general microbiological culture. While their exhaust systems discharge air to the outside, they do not fully isolate external air from the internal working area.

Applicable scenarios:

• Basic research laboratories

• Environmental monitoring laboratories

• Experiments involving non–high-risk microorganisms

2. Class II Biosafety Cabinet

Class II biosafety cabinets are widely used in laboratories handling hazardous pathogens, viruses, or bacteria. They provide enhanced protection through technologies such as bidirectional airflow and HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration, ensuring the safety of both personnel and the laboratory environment.

Applicable scenarios:

• Clinical laboratories: Especially for pathogen isolation and culture

• Pathology laboratories: Detection and cultivation of viruses, bacteria, and fungi

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: Aseptic operations in biopharmaceutical production

• Animal research laboratories: Handling samples involving zoonotic pathogens

3. Class III Biosafety Cabinet

Class III biosafety cabinets are designed for high-risk experiments, such as operations involving highly lethal pathogens (e.g., Ebola virus). They provide complete physical isolation, typically featuring negative pressure control and a fully enclosed structure, offering the highest level of protection for operators and the environment.

Applicable scenarios:

• Advanced pathology laboratories handling extremely dangerous biological samples

• Specialized pathogen research laboratories studying highly infectious agents (such as cholera or anthrax)

III. Key Considerations When Selecting an Appropriate Application Scenario

Choosing the appropriate type of biosafety cabinet depends on laboratory research needs and the risk level of the experiments. Key factors include:

1. Experimental Risk Level

Determine the required safety level based on the type and hazard level of the pathogens involved. Class II and Class III biosafety cabinets are mainly used for high-risk or lethal pathogens.

2. Operational Processes

Different experimental procedures require different levels of protection. For example, cell culture and virus detection involve distinct operational risks and protection requirements.

3. Laboratory Space and Equipment Layout

Laboratory layout and existing equipment configuration must be considered. For instance, Class III biosafety cabinets require sufficient space to accommodate complex negative pressure systems.

4. Maintenance and Regulatory Requirements

Higher-level biosafety cabinets require more intensive maintenance, including regular filter replacement and system inspections. In addition, national and international biosafety regulations can influence equipment selection.

IV. Summary and Recommendations

As a critical device for ensuring laboratory safety and protecting both personnel and the environment, biosafety cabinets are indispensable in modern laboratories. Understanding the applicable scenarios of different types of biosafety cabinets not only helps in selecting the appropriate equipment but also ensures safe and compliant laboratory operations.
Laboratory managers should make informed decisions based on specific experimental requirements and technical parameters to support safe, efficient, and sustainable scientific research.