Bioseguridad y flujo laminar for the laboratory

A biosafety cabinet protects the operator, the environment and (depending on the class) the sample, filtering the air with HEPA/ULPA; a laminar flow hood only protects the sample, directing filtered air toward the user. For hazardous biological agents, the correct answer is a biosafety cabinet, never laminar flow.

Class II is the most common in clinical and research laboratories: it protects the operator, the sample and the environment, with subtypes (A2, B2) depending on air recirculation or exhaust. Class III (sealed glovebox) is reserved for the highest-risk agents.

The reference practice (NSF/ANSI 49) is to certify it at installation, whenever it is moved, and at least once a year: HEPA filter integrity, flow velocities, and smoke patterns. Without current certification, protection is not guaranteed.

Away from doors, foot traffic, and air vents that could disturb the air curtain, with clear space around it and, for cabinets with exhaust, with the duct planned in advance. Inolab advises on placement, installs, and certifies in Mexico.