Biosafety Cabinets

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a Class II Type A2 and a Type B2 cabinet?

An A2 recirculates about 70% of its air and exhausts roughly 30%, and can vent to the room or be canopy/thimble-connected to the building exhaust. A B2 exhausts 100% of its air with zero recirculation and must be hard-ducted to a dedicated outdoor exhaust. The A2 suits biological work; the B2 is for protocols involving volatile toxic chemicals or hazardous vapors.

Can a biosafety cabinet protect me from chemical fumes?

Only to a limited degree. HEPA filters capture particulates and aerosols but do not remove volatile chemical vapors or solvents. A recirculating A2 would push those vapors back into the work zone, so it is unsuitable for meaningful chemical use. For volatile or toxic chemistry, choose a total-exhaust B2 hard-ducted outdoors, or use a dedicated fume hood instead.

Is a biosafety cabinet the same as a fume hood or a clean bench?

No. A fume hood protects the operator from chemical vapors but offers no product or environmental protection and is not for biological work. A clean bench blows filtered air toward the user to protect the sample only, which can expose the operator to biohazards. A Class II BSC is the option that protects operator, product, and environment together for biological work.

Do I need special ducting or facility prep to install one?

It depends on the type. An A2 can often exhaust into the room or connect to building exhaust through a canopy or thimble, giving more placement flexibility. A B2 requires a sealed, dedicated hard-duct connection and adequate exhaust capacity, which may involve HVAC and make-up air planning. Confirm clearances, power, and exhaust routing before purchase, and plan for certification after installation.