Biosafety cabinet - Kewaunee

In laboratory environments where biological agents, hazardous materials, and sensitive research converge, the importance of containment cannot be overstated. A biosafety cabinet is a critical component in any lab dealing with infectious agents, providing essential protection for the user, the environment, and the samples. Among the global leaders in laboratory solutions, Kewaunee Scientific Corporation offers state-of-the-art biosafety cabinets that combine precision engineering, regulatory compliance, and ergonomic design.

What is a Biosafety Cabinet?

A biosafety cabinet (BSC) is a ventilated workspace designed to provide protection against biohazards. Using HEPA filtration and laminar airflow, these cabinets create a sterile environment where researchers can safely manipulate biological materials. Depending on the level of protection required, biosafety cabinets are classified into different categories (Class I, II, and III), with Class II being the most commonly used due to its ability to offer product, personnel, and environmental protection.

Kewaunee’s Biosafety Cabinet: A High-Performance Safety Solution

Kewaunee’s biosafety cabinets are engineered to meet the growing needs of modern laboratories. From pharmaceutical and clinical research to biotechnology and diagnostics, these cabinets are built to perform in demanding environments where safety and precision are non-negotiable.

Here’s what sets Kewaunee biosafety cabinets apart:

1. Triple Protection Design

Kewaunee cabinets are designed to protect:

• Personnel: Incoming air is filtered to protect the user from exposure to biohazards.

• Product: Vertical laminar airflow protects samples from contamination by outside air.

• Environment: Exhaust air passes through HEPA filters to prevent hazardous particles from entering the laboratory atmosphere.

This triple-layer protection makes them ideal for handling moderate-risk biological agents in accordance with biosafety level 1 to 3 protocols.

2. HEPA Filtration System

A cornerstone of any biosafety cabinet is its filtration system. Kewaunee biosafety cabinets use High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters that remove 99.99% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. This ensures that both supply and exhaust air are completely sterile, maintaining an ultra-clean work environment.

3. Compliance with International Standards

Kewaunee designs its biosafety cabinets in accordance with globally recognized standards, including:

• NSF/ANSI 49

• EN 12469

• UL 61010-1

These certifications guarantee that the cabinets meet or exceed the strictest requirements for biosafety and containment.

4. Ergonomic and User-Friendly Design

In high-throughput laboratories, comfort and ease of use are essential. Kewaunee’s biosafety cabinets feature:

• Ergonomic sloped front sashes

• Comfortable armrests

• Digital airflow monitoring and alarm systems

• LED lighting for improved visibility and energy savings

The seamless stainless-steel work surface and rounded interior corners make cleaning and sterilization fast and efficient.

5. Smart Airflow Monitoring and Controls

Equipped with real-time airflow sensors and visual/audible alarms, Kewaunee’s biosafety cabinets ensure continuous monitoring of cabinet performance. Digital touchscreens provide airflow velocity readings and alerts in the event of filter saturation or airflow deviations, enhancing safety and compliance.

6. Quiet and Energy-Efficient Operation

Laboratory noise can contribute to stress and errors. Kewaunee addresses this by using low-noise fans and electronically commutated motors (ECMs) for quiet, energy-efficient performance. These motors adjust speed automatically to maintain airflow consistency, reducing power consumption and extending filter life.

7. Flexible Models and Customization

Kewaunee offers biosafety cabinets in multiple sizes (from 3 to 6 feet) and configurations, including ducted and recirculating models. Optional features include:

• UV germicidal lamps

• Gas/vacuum service connections

• Height-adjustable stands

• Decontamination ports

These options allow for full customization based on your lab’s workflow and biosafety requirements.

Applications of Kewaunee Biosafety Cabinets

Kewaunee’s biosafety cabinets are ideal for a wide range of laboratory applications, including:

• Clinical Diagnostics: Safe handling of patient samples and cultures.

• Microbiology and Pathogen Research: Working with bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

• Pharmaceutical Testing: Sterile compounding and aseptic processing.

• Biotechnology: DNA manipulation, cell culture, and recombinant techniques.

• Academic and Teaching Labs: Training students in microbiological techniques under safe conditions.

Installation, Certification, and Support

Kewaunee offers complete lifecycle support for its biosafety cabinets, including:

• Site evaluation and installation

• Annual certification and filter replacement

• Preventive maintenance services

• User training and SOP guidance

This end-to-end support ensures long-term compliance and safety for your laboratory environment.

Conclusion

The Biosafety Cabinet by Kewaunee is a world-class solution for labs that demand the highest level of biological containment. Engineered with safety, functionality, and compliance in mind, Kewaunee cabinets provide peace of mind for researchers working with potentially hazardous materials.

Whether you're involved in cutting-edge research, clinical diagnostics, or pharmaceutical development, Kewaunee’s biosafety cabinets offer the protection and reliability your team needs. By choosing Kewaunee, you’re investing in a legacy of innovation, performance, and trust—ensuring your work continues safely and without compromise.