AS 2252.

2—2009
AS 2252.2—2009

Australian Standard®

Controlled environments

Part 2: Biological safety cabinets

Class II—Design
This Australian Standard® was prepared by Committee ME-060, Controlled Environment. It
was approved on behalf of the Council of Standards Australia on 2 October 2009.
This Standard was published on 2 November 2009.

The following are represented on Committee ME-060:

• Airconditioning & Refrigeration Equipment Manufacturers Association of Australia

• Association of Accredited Certification Bodies
• Auckland Regional Chambers of Commerce
• Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
• Australian Industry Group
• Australian Institute of Refrigeration Air Conditioning and Heating
• Australian Society for Microbiology
• CSIRO Australian Animal Health Laboratory
• Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing
• Engineers Australia
• Human Factors and Ergonomics Society of Australia
• International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering
• NSW Health Department
• National Association of Testing Authorities Australia
• Office of the Gene Technology Regulator

This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 08230.

Standards Australia wishes to acknowledge the participation of the expert individuals that
contributed to the development of this Standard through their representation on the
Committee and through the public comment period.

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Standards Australia welcomes suggestions for improvements, and encourages readers to

notify us immediately of any apparent inaccuracies or ambiguities. Contact us via email at
mail@standards.org.au, or write to Standards Australia, GPO Box 476, Sydney, NSW 2001.
 AS 2252.2—2009

Australian Standard®

Controlled environments

Part 2: Biological safety cabinets

Class II—Design

Originated as AS 2252.2—1980.
Previous edition 2004.
Fifth edition 2009.

COPYRIGHT
© Standards Australia
All rights are reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or copied in any form or by
any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, without the written
permission of the publisher.
Published by Standards Australia GPO Box 476, Sydney, NSW 2001, Australia
ISBN 0 7337 9290 1
AS 2252.2—2009 2

PREFACE
This Standard was prepared by the Australian members of the Joint Australia/New Zealand
Standards Committee ME-060, Controlled Environment to supersede AS 2252.2—2004,
Biological safety cabinets, Part 2: Laminar flow biological safety cabinets (Class II) for
personnel, environment and product protection.
It is recommended that a risk assessment be undertaken to assess the suitability of a
particular class of cabinet for its application and intended location.
This revision of the Standard incorporates significant changes and should be read in its
entirety. In particular the following changes were made:
(a) EN 12469 or NSF/ANSI 49 or equivalent Standards are acceptable alternatives to
AS 2252.2 for the manufacture and certification of negative pressure plenum cabinets.
Where these cabinets are selected, certification for on-site commissioning and
periodic test requirements are to be performed to comply with the requirements of the
relevant Standard of manufacture or AS 2252.2.
(b) Factory test requirements have been introduced in addition to the existing test
requirements.
(c) Field test requirements have been amended.
(d) Previous prescriptive requirements have been amended in favour of performance
based requirements.
This Standard is Part 2 of a series on biological safety cabinets. When complete, the series
will comprise the following:
AS
2252.1 Controlled environments—Part 1: Biological safety cabinets Class I—Design
2252.2 Controlled environments—Part 2: Biological safety cabinets Class II—Design
2252.3 Controlled environments—Part 3: Biological safety cabinets Class III—Design
2252.4 Controlled environments—Part 4: Biological safety cabinets Class I, II and III—
Installation and use
2252.5 Controlled environments—Part 5: Cytotoxic cabinets—Design, installation and
use
2252.6 Controlled environments—Part 6: Clean workstations—Design, installation and
use
2252.7 Controlled environments—Part 7: Pharmaceutical isolators—Design, installation
and use
The separate parts of this series specify cabinets that provide protection from hazardous
biological materials. These materials may need to be handled in contained spaces for the
safety of the operator (Classes I, II and III) or if product protection only is required this can
be handled in laminar flow* clean space.
AS 2252.4, provides recommended practices for most aspects of the use of these cabinets.
Reference should be made to this Standard so that the effectiveness of cabinets is not
compromised by unsuitable installation. In particular, air turbulence from various sources
may adversely affect the air barrier containment.
AS/NZS 2647:2000 will be withdrawn on publication of AS 2252.4.
Total containment devices (commonly known as Class III cabinets) should be used when
handling agents of Risk Group 4 (see Foreword).

* In this Standard, the term ‘laminar flow’ has the same meaning as the term ‘unidirectional flow’.
 3 AS 2252.2—2009

Class I and Class II biological safety cabinets are unsuitable for handling cytotoxic drugs.
Users are referred to AS 2252.5.
Self-contained devices for the aseptic preparation of pharmaceutical products are addressed
in AS 2252.7.
There are two methods of containment test, AS 1807.22 Polydisperse di-octyl phthalate
(Cold DOP) and Potassium iodide (KI Discus). As there is ongoing research in this area it is
recommended that users consult the available literature on the above two containment tests
and base their decision on an appropriate risk assessment.
An interim standard AS 2252.3, Controlled environment—Part 3: Biological safety
cabinets Class III—Design is available.
The term ‘informative’ has been used in this Standard to define the application of the
appendix to which it applies. An ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and
guidance.
Compliance with an Australian or Australian/New Zealand Standard does not in itself
confer immunity from legal obligations.
AS 2252.2—2009 4

CONTENTS

Page

FOREWORD.............................................................................................................................. 5
1 SCOPE........................................................................................................................ 7
2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS.................................................................................. 7
3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS................................................................................... 8
4 CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................... 12
5 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................... 16
6 MARKING ............................................................................................................... 18

APPENDIX A ERGONOMICS.............................................................................................. 19
 5 AS 2252.2—2009

FOREWORD
Surveys conducted in the 1970s of the causes of infections acquired in microbiological
laboratories showed that only about 20% of the cases investigated followed known
accidents, for example from a spill of infectious material or from a needle-stick injury.
Many of the remaining 80% of these infections result from exposure to aerosols that are
produced from common laboratory procedures, such as pipetting, blending and
homogenizing.
An aerosol is a suspension of finely dispersed liquid or solid particles in air, of sizes
varying from 0.01 to 100 micrometres. In unsaturated air, water evaporates from droplets,
leaving nuclei or residues smaller in size. Aerosols are formed whenever the surface film of
a liquid is broken. Greater energy input into aerosol formation produces smaller particles.
Aerosol formation may be continuous, as from an operating homogenizer, or discontinuous,
as from a dropped container of culture or the spray from a punctured septum. Aerosols
containing microorganisms are of concern because they are invisible, they can spread
throughout a laboratory and can affect many people.
Specialized containment equipment has been produced to protect laboratory workers where
there is risk of exposure to such aerosols. The objectives in the control of microbiological
hazards and contamination are to minimize the exposure of laboratory and support staff and
to prevent the liberation of microorganisms and other biologically hazardous material from
the laboratory into the environment.
The term ‘containment’ is used in describing the control of such hazards, meaning that they
are kept within specified limits. Primary containment is provided by the use of good
microbiological technique and by the use of appropriate safety equipment such as a
biological safety cabinet. Such equipment provides the primary barrier. Secondary
containment is provided by the laboratory containing primary containment equipment. It
forms the secondary barrier.
Following guidelines produced by the World Health Organization, AS/NZS 2243.3, Safety
in laboratories, Part 3: Microbiological aspects and containment facilities, classifies
microorganisms according to the degree of risk, based on their pathogenicity, their mode of
transmission and host range, the availability of effective preventive measures against
infection and availability of effective treatment. There are similar classifications in other
countries, for example the United Kingdom.
The risk groups are as follows:
(a) Risk Group 1 (low individual and community risk)—a microorganism that is unlikely
to cause human or animal disease.
(b) Risk Group 2 (moderate individual risk, limited community risk)—a microorganism
that is unlikely to be a significant risk to laboratory workers, the community,
livestock, or the environment; laboratory exposures may cause infection, but effective
treatment and preventive measures are available, and the risk of spread is limited.
(c) Risk Group 3 (high individual risk, limited to moderate community risk)—a
microorganism that usually causes serious human or animal disease and may present a
significant risk to laboratory workers. It could present a limited to moderate risk if
spread in the community or the environment, but there are usually effective
preventive measures or treatment available.
(d) Risk Group 4 (high individual and community risk)—a microorganism that usually
produces life-threatening human or animal disease, represents a significant risk to
laboratory workers and may be readily transmissible from one individual to another.
Effective treatment and preventive measures are not usually available.
AS 2252.2—2009 6

One of the most widely used pieces of equipment for primary containment is the biological
safety cabinet, the principal device for containment of aerosols produced in microbiological
procedures. Biological safety cabinets are divided into three classes, relating to the method
of construction providing the containment. Class I and Class II biological safety cabinets
are partially open-fronted and provide a degree of protection when working with
microorganisms of Risk Groups 2 and 3 and where the work produces a significant quantity
of aerosol. Biological safety cabinets are only needed for work with microorganisms of
Risk Group 1 if large amounts of aerosol are produced. Class III biological safety cabinets
are totally enclosed devices where the user works through built-in gloves. This class of
cabinet provides the highest degree of protection against aerosols produced when working
with microorganisms of Risk Group 4, i.e. those most dangerous to laboratory workers.
Laminar flow clean workstations must be distinguished from biological safety cabinets, as
any aerosol produced from work is discharged towards the operator and into the
environment. They must not be used when handling hazardous biological materials.
The Office of the Gene Technology Regulators has published guidelines (see [1] below) for
working with genetically manipulated material. Three levels of containment are described
for both small-scale and large-scale work. Biological safety cabinets are required where
work produces significant quantities of aerosols.
The user is referred to the following publications:
[1] The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator Handbook on the Regulation of Gene
Technology in Australia, Canberra: Office of the Gene Technology Regulator, 2001
http://www.ogtr.gov.au/
[2] Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (Low-risk genetic modifications)
Regulations 1998. Wellington, New Zealand
[3] ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON NOVEL GENETIC TECHNIQUES. New Zealand
code of practice for small-scale genetic manipulation research. Wellington: The
Committee, 1994.
 7 AS 2252.2—2009

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

Australian Standard
Controlled environments

Part 2: Biological safety cabinets

Class II—Design

1 SCOPE
This Standard specifies basic requirements for Class II laminar flow biological safety
cabinets that are intended to provide protection from hazardous biological agents for
personnel and the environment and also to protect material used in the cabinet from
exogenous contamination. The cabinets provide protection by inducing an inflow of room
air through the work access opening, by delivering recirculated, high efficiency particulate
air (HEPA) filtered, laminar flow air downwards through the work zone and by HEPA
filtration of exhaust air.
It is intended that this Standard be read in conjunction with AS 2252.4 which describes
recommended practices for installation and use of these cabinets.
NOTES:
1 These cabinets are intended only for handling materials that can be inactivated or rendered
safe by an effective decontamination procedure such as that described in AS 2252.4 .
2 Additional design requirements may apply to cabinets that are required to afford protection
against other hazards such as toxic materials not of biological origin or against radiation.
3 For work with cytotoxic drugs the user is referred to AS 2252.5.
4 Consideration of ergonomics for the design and selection of biological safety cabinets are
addressed in Appendix A.

2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
The following documents are referred to in this Standard:
AS
1319 Safety signs for the occupational environment
1807 Cleanrooms, workstations, safety cabinets and pharmaceutical isolators—
Methods of test
1807.1 Method 1: Determination of air velocity and uniformity of air velocity in clean
workstations, laminar flow safety cabinets and pharmaceutical
isolators
1807.5 Method 5: Determination of work zone integrity
1807.6 Method 6: Determination of integrity of terminally-mounted HEPA filter
installations
1807.15 Method 15: Determination of illuminance
1807.18 Method 18: Determination of vibration in workstations, safety cabinets and
pharmaceutical isolators
1807.20 Method 20: Determination of sound level at installed workstations, safety
cabinets and pharmaceutical isolators
1807.22 Method 22: Determination of air barrier containment of laminar flow safety
cabinets
1807.23 Method 23: Determination of intensity of radiation from germicidal ultraviolet
lamps

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AS 2252.2—2009 8

AS
1807.25 Method 25: Determination of gastightness of outer shell of biological safety
cabinets and pharmaceutical isolators
1807.26 Method 26 Determination of air barrier containment of laminar flow safety
cabinets—Potassium iodidediscus test
1939 Degrees of protection provided by enclosures for electrical equipment
(IP Code)
2252 Controlled environments
2252.4 Part 4: Biological safety cabinets Class I, II and III—Installation and use
2252.5 Part 5: Cytotoxic cabinets—Design, installation and use
4260 High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters—Classification, construction and
performance
AS/NZS
2107 Acoustics—Recommended design sound levels and reverberation times for
building interiors
2243 Safety in laboratories
2243.3 Part 3: Microbiological aspects and containment facilities
3000 Electrical installations (known as the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules)
3100 Approval and test specification—General requirements for electrical equipment
EN
1822 High efficiency air filters (EPA, HEPA and ULPA)
1822-1 Part 1: Classification, performance testing and marking

3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
A Class II laminar flow biological safety cabinet shall comply with the following general
requirements (see Figures 1 and 2):
(a) The cabinet shall be a self-contained device encompassing a protected work zone with
associated cabinetry and fittings.
NOTE: It may be free standing or bench-mounted.
(b) The work zone shall be supplied, through its entire upper surface, with air passed
through a HEPA filter and removable filter guard in such a way as to deliver a
vertical, unidirectional downward flow of filtered air.
(c) The front face of the work zone shall include a viewing window and a work access
opening through which room air is drawn to form an air barrier that minimizes egress
of aerosols through the opening.
(d) The supplied filtered air and indrawn room air shall be recovered partly through a
removable air intake grille located inside the cabinet and immediately under the work
access opening and partly at the rear of the work floor. All recovered air shall be passed
from beneath the work floor into a return air plenum chamber integral to the back
and/or sides of the cabinet. A removable work floor shall be located in the work zone.
NOTE: The work zone is defined as that space between the plane of the removable work floor
and the protective guard fitted below the HEPA filter supplying unidirectional downward
flow air. The work zone does not include the volume above the removable air intake grille to
a height equivalent to the bottom of the viewing window.
(e) The air barrier between the work zone and the room environment shall be created
across the full width of the work access opening by induction of room air through the
removable air intake grille.

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

 9 AS 2252.2—2009

(f) The exhaust air shall be discharged through a HEPA filter.

NOTE: The direction of discharge of the exhaust air should be agreed between the purchaser
and the supplier.
(g) The cabinet shall not be connected directly to any other air-handling system.
NOTE: The purchaser may make provision to exhaust air to the atmosphere by an indirect
connection and, if desired, to further purify the exhaust air, e.g. by fitting an absorbent filter.
(h) All potentially contaminated zones within the cabinet that are at positive pressure
shall be surrounded by zones of negative pressure relative to the workroom
atmosphere.
(i) All controls associated with the cabinet shall be integral parts of the cabinet.
(j) Provision shall be made to prevent loose items from being drawn into the entry of the
return air plenum.
(k) The work zone shall be illuminated in such a way as to provide even lighting in the
work zone but the light shall be screened from the operator’s view.
(l) A means shall be provided to obtain a reference sample of challenge aerosol to
facilitate testing of the HEPA filters.

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 AS 2252.2—2009

© Standards Australia
10

FIGURE 1 TYPICAL LAMINAR FLOW BIOLOGICAL SAFETY CABINET (Class II)

www.standards.org.au
 www.standards.org.au
11

FIGURE 2 WORK ZONE (SHADED) OF A TYPICAL LAMINAR FLOW BIOLOGICAL SAFETY CABINET (CLASS II)

© Standards Australia
AS 2252.2—2009
AS 2252.2—2009 12

4 CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS
4.1 General
Reference should be made to Figure 1, which shows a typical Class II biological safety
cabinet with two blowers.
4.2 Outer shell
The outer shell shall be of metal which, if not stainless steel, shall be coated with a durable,
corrosion-resistant sealing material and shall be sufficiently robust to prevent fracture or
distortion in transport and installation. It should be sufficiently gastight so that when
subjected to the decontamination procedures the fumigant is contained within the cabinet.
4.3 Work zone
4.3.1 General
Except for the front viewing window and clear side panels (where used) and the laminar
flow HEPA filter removable guard, the boundaries of the work zone, including the sump
and the air intake grille, shall be constructed entirely of Series 300 stainless steel with a
smooth finish. The grade of stainless steel used in the construction of the work zone should
be selected for resistance to chemicals used during work processes and in disinfection.
NOTE: Grades 304 and 316 have been found to be suitable for most applications.
In order to prevent penetration by microorganisms, facilitate disinfection and prevent
injury, all joints and surfaces in the work zone shall be finished smooth and crevice-free.
Sealants shall be non-porous with a smooth finish and resistant to chemicals and normal
disinfecting processes.
Although the area and shape of the work zone is not restricted, it is essential that
unidirectional airflow occurs within the work zone and adjacent to the viewing window,
side and rear walls.
The work zone panels that form part of the return air plenum shall permit cleaning and
service access to the plenum where necessary.
4.3.2 Viewing windows
The front viewing window shall be a panel of safety glass extending the full width of the
work zone, and forming a positive seal with the body of the cabinet in the working position.
It shall be capable of being completely cleaned without removal.
The window should be vertically aligned with the front boundary of the unidirectional
airflow outlet. Where a hinged window is used a means shall be provided to secure the
window in the closed position. Where a sliding window is used means shall be provided to
locate the window in the normal operating position. To facilitate cleaning and placement of
equipment within the cabinet, means should be provided for holding the viewing window in
the open position.
An audible or prominently visible alarm, which is activated when the window is other than
in the fully-open or closed position, shall be fitted. When the window is in the fully-open
position, the alarm may be activated in a muted capacity for a maximum of 15 minutes at
which time it is reactivated to its full audible capacity.
Some designs use, or offer the option of clear side panels. Where clear side panels are
provided they shall be a fixed panel of safety glass, or equivalent material, fitted so as to
maintain an effective perimeter seal.
4.3.3 Work access opening
The width of the work access opening shall be that of the work zone.

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 13 AS 2252.2—2009

4.3.4 Work access opening cover

A means of closing the work access opening shall be provided for use when the cabinet is
not operating and when the ultraviolet light, if fitted, is operating. Any overriding
mechanism for testing purposes shall not be accessible during normal operation.
4.3.5 Work zone illumination
The work zone shall be illuminated by fluorescent lamps fitted externally to the work zone
but allowing light transmission through a glass panel fitted to the housing or, alternatively,
through the top portion of the viewing window.
The lamp housing shall be designed to dissipate heat away from the operator, and lamp
ballasts shall be located external to the housing. Lighting shall not cause reflections that
interfere with the operator’s vision and the operator’s eyes shall be shielded from direct
radiation of light.
4.3.6 Work floor
The work floor shall be rigid, stable, not fastened and readily removable. It may be solid or
perforated, as selected by the purchaser. When the work floor is solid, it should have a
retaining lip around the perimeter to retain liquid, spillage and disinfectants. All corners of
the floor shall be formed to facilitate cleaning and disinfection. The design of the work
floor shall permit cleaning of both its upper and lower surfaces within the cabinet.
4.3.7 Grilles
An air intake grille shall be fitted between the front of the cabinet and the leading edge of
the work floor. It shall have turned-down stiffening edges registering in position without
the need for fastening. Suitable means, such as a grille or filter medium, shall be fitted in
the rear plenum to prevent loose materials from being drawn from the work zone into the
motor blower(s).
The design of the air-intake grille shall minimize occlusions of airflow by operators’
garments.
4.3.8 Sump
The sump (which provides the base of the lower air plenum) shall be watertight and all
internal joints shall be welded, ground flush and dressed. The sump shall be sized to retain
liquid to a minimum volume of 5 litres. The floor of the sump shall be free from
obstructions and attachments and all corners shall be formed to facilitate cleaning or
disinfection.
4.4 Filters and filter installations
Minimum requirements for HEPA filters shall be HEPA Type 1 (dry), Class A (fully
disposable), Performance Grade 2 as specified in AS 4260, which have a minimum
arrestance efficiency of 99.99% for nominal 0.3 µm diameter particles.
HEPA filters conforming to EN 1822-1 are acceptable.
Pleat separators on conventional filters shall be metal.
Fluid, gel or grease seals shall not be used, as decontamination of these seals cannot be
assured.
For multiple laminar flow filters, mullion width between adjoining filters shall be not
greater than 50 mm.

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AS 2252.2—2009 14

Filters shall be protected from mechanical damage on the upstream side by a perforated
guard placed between the blowers and the filters and on the downstream side by a
perforated guard. Where removable filter guards are fitted to laminar flow filter
installations they shall be of unitary construction and shall be made of a non-shedding
material. (Stainless steel and anodized aluminium are suitable materials). They shall be
sized and fastened so as to permit easy removal and replacement. Access shall be provided
to facilitate determination of integrity of the filters and their installation in accordance with
AS 1807.6.
A means shall be provided for monitoring pressure drop across each HEPA filter.
A sampling port for 100% datum concentrations of the challenge aerosol used for checking
filter integrity shall be provided for each HEPA filter positive pressure plenum and shall be
connected by tubes terminating at an accessible position in the return air plenum. Each
sampling tube shall be provided with a sealing cap or plug. Tubes shall not allow venting of
contaminated air to the workzone or outside the cabinet.
4.5 Blowers and alarm systems
4.5.1 Blowers
The blower(s) shall be capable of maintaining the air barrier containment and the airflow
velocity specified in Clause 5.2.3 without exceeding the motor manufacturer’s current
rating and operating temperature.
Blower(s) shall be driven directly and each shall be fitted with a variable speed controller.
Where separate blowers are used for exhaust and laminar flow they shall be interlocked to
ensure the exhaust blower system is achieving containment before laminar flow blower(s)
operate.
4.5.2 Blower alarm systems
Cabinets shall be fitted with alarms that:
(a) Operate briefly at start-up of the blower.
(b) Warn of reduction in exhaust airflow to the point where air barrier containment fails.
(c) Warn of a variation of 20% or greater from the manufacturer’s recommended air
velocity. Where these data are not available, a minimum velocity setpoint of 0.35 m/s,
and a maximum setpoint of 0.55 m/s shall be used.
(d) Provide an unmistakable visual signal to an operator or observer.
(e) Indicate when loss of power occurs.
When a pressure switch is located outside the negative pressure zone, it shall be protected
by a 0.2 µm hydrophobic filter.
4.6 Access panels
Access panels shall be provided for the maintenance or easy removal of filters, blowers,
motors, lighting, electrical components and other services. Panels that provide access to
contaminated zones shall be sealed.
4.7 Electrical services
Electrical wiring shall comply with AS/NZS 3000 and AS/NZS 3100 or equivalent. Wiring
penetrations through the boundaries into contaminated zones shall be sealed gastight.
Electrical components other than the blower motors, pressure switches and power outlets
and their associated wiring shall not be located within contaminated zones.
All wiring and electrical components shall be mechanically secured without penetration of
any containment boundary. Adhesive tapes shall not be used for fixing or looming.

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 15 AS 2252.2—2009

When specified by the user any outlets in the work areas shall:
(a) meet classification IPX3 of AS 1939;
(b) provide visual indications of power status;
(c) be located in a position that will permit removal and cleaning of the work floor and
the laminar flow HEPA filter perforated guard; and
(d) be capable of being switched from the control panel.
One or more power outlets meeting classification IPX3 of AS 1939, with visual indicators,
shall be provided in the work area and shall be located in a position that will permit
removal and cleaning of the work floor and the laminar flow HEPA filter perforated guard.
They shall be capable of being switched from the control panel.
A control enclosure, mounted outside the containment boundaries, shall be an integral part
of the cabinet. The enclosure shall have a cover removable only with the use of a tool. All
controls for service functions and major electrical components within the enclosure shall be
identified by permanent labelling. A wiring diagram shall be permanently fixed inside the
cover.
All operator controls shall be mounted on the front of the cabinet and shall be visible and
accessible from the normal operator position.
4.8 Germicidal ultraviolet (UV) lamps
Where UV lamp(s) are fitted, they shall be located in the work zone as a permanent fixture.
Provision shall be made to ensure that the lamps do not operate when the work access
opening cover is not in place. The installation of an automatic switch off is recommended.
Users of cabinets fitted with UV lamps should be aware of the potential hazards and
limitations associated with the use of UV, including:
(a) Personnel exposed to UV radiation may suffer eye damage and erythema.
(b) UV lamps may generate ozone which may be an inhalation hazard.
(c) The radiation is not penetrating and is ineffective on dry or shielded organisms.
(d) Radiation intensity reduces over time due to degradation and surface staining of
lamps.
(e) UV radiation causes degradation of certain materials that may be used in cabinet
construction. The breakdown of some materials within the work zone may result in
the emission of toxic vapours.
(f) Where UV lamps are operated for prolonged and/or frequent periods, they may cause
degradation of interior surfaces of the cabinet. Particles may then be liberated into the
downward laminar airflow.
Where UV lamps are fitted, a permanent label clearly displaying the following wording,
shall be attached to the front of the cabinet:
WARNING: DANGER. PROTECT EYES WHEN ULTRAVIOLET LAMPS ARE
OPERATING.
Where UV lamps are fitted, easy access shall be provided to allow regular cleaning,
checking, and replacement of the lamps.

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AS 2252.2—2009 16

4.9 Gas supply

If there is provision for gas to be supplied to the work zone of the cabinet, e.g. for a bunsen
burner, this supply shall be controlled by an approved solenoid valve that will allow gas to
pass only when the motor blowers are switched on and which requires resetting after the
interruption of electrical power. This will reduce the fire and explosion hazard.
NOTES:
1 The provision of gas supply is not recommended. Flames from gas burners interfere with
laminar airflow within the cabinet and may compromise containment.
2 The use of reticulated gas may be prohibited by local regulatory authorities.
3 Where practicable, disposable loops or use of electrical loop sterilizers are preferred to gas
burners.
4.10 Adsorbent filter
If specified by the purchaser, an adsorbent filter for odour control may be fitted
downstream of the exhaust HEPA filter.
The filter shall be readily removable to facilitate HEPA filter integrity testing or for
fumigation purposes.
The filter shall be in place for testing air velocity and containment characteristics.
NOTE: These filters have a finite life and need to be replaced periodically to maintain their
effectiveness.
4.11 Post-use overrun control
Where a post-use, overrun control is fitted, the blowers should continue to operate for at
least 5 min after switch-off. A visual indicator shall be provided to show when the cabinet
is in this mode of operation.
4.12 Decontamination covers
Covers with interconnecting ducting for use in decontamination, to permit sealing of the
front access opening and the exhaust filters, shall be available from the equipment supplier.

5 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
5.1 General
5.1.1 Factory test requirements
Critical performance tests shall be carried out prior to dispatch to the customer. A
manufacturer’s test certificate of compliance shall be provided with the cabinet.
5.1.2 Installation test requirements
Critical performance tests shall be carried out upon installation.
5.1.3 Periodic test requirements
Periodic critical performance tests of cabinet shall be conducted at least annually and on
any change to cabinet position and function. Carefully sliding a cabinet away from the wall
does not constitute a change to cabinet position.
5.2 Critical performance tests for cabinet function
5.2.1 Filter installation integrity
When determined in accordance with AS 1807.6, aerosol penetration of the exhaust and
laminar flow HEPA filter installations shall not exceed 0.01%.

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 17 AS 2252.2—2009

5.2.2 Containment at the aperture

Two different methods of determining aerosol containment at the work opening are
available, and are detailed in AS 1807.22 and AS 1807.26. After consultation with the user
and consideration of the manufacturer’s performance specifications, the appropriate method
shall be selected.
When determined in accordance with AS 1807.22, the penetration of the test aerosol shall,
on average, not exceed 0.01% more than once every 10 s during the total period of test for
each test position.
When determined in accordance with AS 1807.26 the operator aperture protection factor
shall not be less than 1 × 105 .
5.2.3 Work zone integrity
When tested in accordance with AS 1807.5, the test aerosol generated and released outside
the work aperture shall not be detected inside the work zone.
5.2.4 Air velocity and uniformity in the work zone
When determined in accordance with AS 1807.1, the average velocity of the laminar flow
air shall be between 0.40 and 0.45 m/s. All readings shall fall within 20% of the average.
5.2.5 Alarm operational adjustment
The alarm systems are preset by the manufacturer and are not always easily tested. The
front viewing window alarm is easily tested and shall be checked during servicing.
Where it is suspected that the air flow alarm system is malfunctioning, the manufacturer’s
instructions shall be followed to correct this fault.
5.2.6 Gastightness of outer shell
Gastightness of outer shell shall be determined in accordance with AS 1807.25. The test
shall be performed prior to dispatch to customer, upon installation, when contaminated zone
panels are removed, and after relocation.
5.3 Tests related to operator comfort and safety
5.3.1 General
The following tests are for worker comfort and safety and are performed at the request of
the customer or at the discretion of the certification provider:
(a) Vibration.
(b) Sound level.
(c) Lighting.
(d) Ultraviolet radiation.
5.3.2 Vibration
Compliance with the requirements set out below may only be critical in some applications.
For operator comfort, extended use of the cabinets may require closer attention to vibration
analysis. Cabinets that do not meet these requirements may or may not provide appropriate
levels of performance. In cases where cabinets do not meet this performance criterion
guidance should be sought from a competent person.
When determined in accordance with AS 1807.18, the vibration velocity in any horizontal
plane on the working surface during operation of the cabinet shall have an r.m.s. value of
less than 0.5 mm/s in the frequency range of 10 Hz to 1000 Hz. In the vertical plane, this
value shall not exceed 1.0 mm/s.

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AS 2252.2—2009 18

NOTES:
1 Every effort should be made to keep the vertical vibration as low as possible.
2 For specific applications buyers may specify lesser vertical vibration limits.
Vibration levels are likely to increase over time with a corresponding increase in noise
levels.
5.3.3 Sound level
When tested in accordance with 1807.20 the sound pressure measured shall not exceed
62 dB(A) during factory critical performance test.
For periodic testing the maximum allowable sound pressure level shall be 65 dB(A) when
tested in accordance with AS 1807.20 with background corrections applied.
NOTES:
1 The results of sound pressure measurements obtained at the installation site may vary from
those obtained by the manufacturer due to the environmental conditions in which
measurements are performed, e.g. room structure, size and finish, air ventilation system noise
and other equipment in the room. Guidance on the assessment of noise in such situations can
be found in AS/NZS 2107.
2 Sound pressure levels will increase over time therefore additional maintenance will be
required to return sound levels to an acceptable condition..
5.3.4 Lighting
Except where otherwise agreed upon between purchaser and supplier, the average lighting
intensity shall be a minimum of 650 lx individual readings shall be a minimum of 430 lx
when determined in accordance with AS 1807.15.
5.3.5 Ultraviolet radiation
Where UV lamps are fitted, the intensity of radiation at a wavelength of 254 nm shall be not
less than 400 mW/m 2 when measured at the work floor surface in accordance with
AS 1807.23.

6 MARKING
The cabinet shall be prominently, legibly and indelibly marked with the following:
(a) CLASS II BIOLOGICAL SAFETY CABINET—FOR PERSONNEL, ENVIRONMENT
AND PRODUCT PROTECTION.
NOT DESIGNED FOR USE WITH FLAMMABLE, EXPLOSIVE OR HIGHLY
VOLATILE LIQUIDS, CYTOTOXIC DRUGS OR TOXIC COMPOUNDS.
(b) The appropriate biological hazard symbol as illustrated in AS/NZS 2243.3.
(c) Where UV lamps are fitted, the marking as specified in Clause 4.8.
NOTE: Information on the legibility of signs is given in AS 1319.
This marking shall be separated from any other permanent markings applied by the
manufacturer.
NOTE: Manufacturers making a statement of compliance with this Australian Standard on a
product, packaging, or promotional material related to that product are advised to ensure that such
compliance is capable of being verified.

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 19 AS 2252.2—2009

APPENDIX A
ERGONOMICS
(Informative)

A1 GENERAL
This Appendix introduces the subject of ergonomics and discusses issues that should be
considered in the design and selection of safety cabinets and isolators.
Ergonomics is the study of the interaction between humans and their work environment,
especially with equipment. The objective of an ergonomics assessment is to make work
systems compatible with the needs, abilities and limitations of people. To be successful,
ergonomics must involve cooperation between designers and users of equipment within the
work environment, in analysis of the physical, perceptual and cognitive demands of any
task. The results of such an analysis can be incorporated in equipment design and/or
modification of work procedures and the work environment so that a person is able to
operate with improved comfort, efficiency and safety.
Taking ergonomics into account in this way has the following benefits:
(a) Helps to ensure compliance with health and safety legislation.
(b) Can be a powerful defence in the event of injury litigation.
(c) Encourages ownership of any necessary working or organizational changes by those
involved.
Safety cabinets should be designed, selected and used so that operators can sit or stand at
them without discomfort. Lines of sight, access for arms, height of arm access or height of
seats above the floor, and space to locate knees while sitting are the key factors. These
factors, which are detailed below, are especially important where a cabinet may be used for
long periods.
The owner of a safety cabinet is responsible for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS)
aspects of its use and should select and install a cabinet with OHS aspects in mind. For
example, it may be decided to install the cabinet on a stand, instead of on a bench, to allow
for adjustment to optimum working height for the user.

A2 CONSIDERATIONS OF ERGONOMICS FOR SAFETY CABINETS AND

ISOLATORS
A2.1 General
Working in biological safety cabinets, cytotoxic drug safety cabinets and pharmaceutical
isolators frequently requires operators to spend long intervals with relatively little relief
from fixed operating positions. Therefore, it is recommended that careful consideration be
given to ergonomics in the design, purchase and use of such equipment. Some ergonomics
aspects are illustrated in Figure A1.
The relevant national and state health and safety legislation and regulations should be
considered during the design, purchase and use of safety cabinets and isolators. In
particular, designers, purchasers and operators of this equipment should ensure that their
responsibilities relating to the ergonomics issues listed below have been given due
consideration with respect to the relevant legislation and regulations.

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AS 2252.2—2009 20

FIGURE A1 ERGOMONICS ASPECTS OF SAFETY CABINETS AND ISOLATORS

A2.2 Design
The following items should be taken into account in the design of safety cabinets and
isolators:
(a) Position of operator, notably static and long-term postural positions.
(b) Fixed or adjustable workbench height.
(c) Work area/space in relation to arm and body positions and movements.
(d) Location of glove ports and pass-through hatches relative to the operator and the
task(s) to be performed.
(e) Forearm support.
(f) Sight lines to equipment.
(g) Luminance within a cabinet, for example, relative to details that may need to be
clearly visible (see also Clause 5.3.4).
(h) Noise and vibration, where not already specified (see Clause 5.3.2).
(i) Access for routine service, maintenance and testing.

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

 21 AS 2252.2—2009

A2.3 Purchase and use

The following items should be taken into account when purchasing or using safety cabinets
and isolators:
(a) Use by a single individual or by a team.
(b) Operating position, notably whether standing or sitting.
(c) Seat design and adjustability.
(d) Intended posture and movements while working.
(e) Work rosters, notably shift duration and frequency.
(f) Waste collection and disposal.
(g) Type and extent of data recording within work area, e.g. computer or pen.
(h) Acoustic analysis of enclosure and selection of room finishes for noise reduction.
(i) Effect of noise levels and heat emission from multiple cabinets.
(j) Room temperature, humidity, airflow patterns and air velocity.
(k) Access for maintenance.

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AS 2252.2—2009 22

NOTES
 23 AS 2252.2—2009

NOTES
AS 2252.2—2009 24

NOTES
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