Biosafety Cabinets

UW Safety Office

Biological safety cabinets are designed to protect personnel and the environment from exposure to potentially hazardous aerosols.

Biological safety cabinets should be certified at least annually; after a new cabinet has been purchased and installed, but before it is used; and after it has been moved or relocated.

Laminar flow hoods are designed for pouring culture media and other procedures demanding clean product but not for containment of biohazards. If you want to use a laminar flow hood and do not know where one is, call the biological safety office (766-3277) to get help locating one you can use.

Use the "Request Certification or Repair" button to schedule work on your cabinet.

Request Certification or Repair

Biosafety cabinets that are not certified should be turned off. 

  • In addition, place a sign on the cabinet which states:  "This Biological Safety Cabinet is Not Certified. Do Not Use for Containment of Infectious Materials"

Biological Safety Cabinet DO NOT USE sign