Biosafety Cabinet Movement and Re-Certification

NSF/ANSI 49 and BMBL (Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories) reference the term “Relocated” as the measure of requiring re-certification. Vertical up and down BSC movement on a motorized base stand is not relocation as intended by either of these documents. The height adjustment up and down movement does not cause the vibration necessary to harm or breach the integrity of the HEPA filters. The height adjustment up and down movement is a very slow and smooth movement typical driven by a hydraulic system. If the height adjustment is used in conjunction with an exhausted BSC (i.e. type B1/B2 or canopy connected type A2), the site assessment certification test should include airflow verification throughout the range of motion. The duct connection itself should be made with flexible PVC duct material.