Biosafety Cabinets

Biosafety cabinets (BSCs) are critical containment devices used in laboratories handling infectious agents, cell cultures, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and other hazardous biological materials. These enclosed, ventilated workspaces are specifically engineered to provide personnel, product, and environmental protection, making them indispensable in microbiology, virology, immunology, biopharmaceutical research, and clinical diagnostics. Biosafety cabinets are essential in laboratories operating at biosafety levels 1 through 3 (BSL-1 to BSL-3), where contamination control and safety are paramount. There are three primary classes of biosafety cabinets—Class I, Class II, and Class III—each offering varying levels of protection. Class I cabinets protect the user and environment but not the sample, making them suitable for low- to moderate-risk biological work. Class II cabinets, the most commonly used type, provide simultaneous protection for the user, the environment, and the work material through HEPA-filtered, laminar airflow and a front access sash. These are ideal for cell culture, viral vector work, sterile manipulations, and handling of moderate-risk pathogens. Class III cabinets, or glove boxes, offer maximum containment for high-risk pathogens (BSL-4) and are fully sealed with gas-tight construction. Biosafety cabinets operate by creating a continuous flow of filtered air across the work surface, capturing aerosols and particulates before they can escape. Internal HEPA filters trap 99.97% of particles ≥0.3 microns in size, preventing contamination of both the user and the external environment. Many models include features such as UV-C sterilization lamps, negative pressure systems, airflow monitoring alarms, and ergonomic design for extended use. At Wasteless Bio, we offer surplus and refurbished biosafety cabinets from certified manufacturers. Each listing includes key specifications such as cabinet class, airflow type, filter configuration, work area size, and regulatory compliance (e.g., NSF 49, EN 12469). Sourcing biosafety cabinets through Wasteless Bio supports both lab safety and sustainable procurement, extending the lifecycle of essential containment equipment and reducing environmental impact.