Class I Safety Enclosures (Class I Biosafety Cabinets)
Our Class I safety enclosures are designed to protect personnel and the laboratory environment from low- to moderate-risk biohazardous or chemical agents. These units do not provide product protection, making them suitable for applications where sample sterility is not required.
Operating under negative pressure, Class I enclosures continuously draw room air into the front opening. Air flows over the work surface and is passed through a HEPA filter before being exhausted, maintaining a minimum inward face velocity of approximately 75 linear feet per minute (FPM) for effective containment.
Key Features and Functions
Personnel & Environmental Protection: Shields operators from hazardous powders, aerosols, particulates, and vapors.
Biosafety Compatibility: Suitable for Biosafety Levels 1, 2, and 3.
HEPA-Filtered Exhaust: Removes airborne contaminants before air is discharged.
Negative Pressure Design: Prevents contaminants from escaping into the laboratory.
Open-Front Access: Includes a sash for partial containment and ergonomic workflow.
Optional UV Lighting: Available for surface decontamination in certain configurations.
Typical Applications
Class I safety enclosures are commonly used for:
- Weighing and transferring chemicals
- Blending or handling powders
- Working with infectious materials where product protection is not required
- Procedures requiring operator containment without sterile conditions
Unlike Class II Biological Safety Cabinets, Class I enclosures do not provide sample protection.
Select the Right Class I Safety Enclosure
To determine if a Class I Safety Enclosure is appropriate for your laboratory, review containment needs, airflow requirements, and biosafety level. For guidance on specifications, compliance, or laboratory layout planning, please contact us. Our experts can help you choose the safest and most efficient solution.