389D000 Rev B
13
Using Ancillary Equipment
The more equipment and material that is placed in the cabinet, the greater the possibility of disrupted air flow.
The resulting turbulence can alter the designed airflow and reduce the effectiveness of the cabinet. When
equipment which rotates, vibrates or heats is used, be sure to place it at the rear of the work area if possible.
This will help minimize the turbulence at the access opening.
Reacting to Spills
Even when good work practices are used, occasional spills may occur. All spills should be dealt with
immediately to prevent contamination and to avoid any damage to the stainless steel surfaces. It is
recommended that the operator, in coordination with the facility safety professional, have a written plan
available in case of an accidental exposure or spill. The safety plan should include all of the emergency
procedures to be followed in the event of an accident. All employees who use the cabinet should be familiar
with the safety plan.
Cleaning and Disinfecting Stainless Steel
IMPORTANT
After cleaning and disinfection, all surfaces should be rinsed with sterile hot water and
wiped completely dry.
Simple Cleaning
IMPORTANT
Do not use steel wool or steel pads when cleaning stainless steel.
Dirt deposits on stainless steel (dust, dirt and finger marks) can usually be removed using warm water, with or
without detergent. If this does not remove the deposits, a mild, non-abrasive household cleaner can be used
with warm water and bristle brushes, sponges or clean cloths.
Iron rust discoloration can be treated by rubbing the surface with a solution of 15% to 20% by volume of Nitric
Acid and water and letting it stand for one to two minutes to loosen the rust.
The proper safety equipment
should always be used when handling acids.
Disinfection
The purpose of disinfection is to destroy any organisms that could pose a potential hazard to humans or
compromise the integrity of the experiment. To ensure an organism is killed, it is important to use a
disinfectant, in the proper concentration that is known to be effective for the specific organism. Standard
disinfectants include: Iodophor-Detergent, Ethanol, Phenol and Alcohol. Hypochloride (chlorine bleach) can
also be used in dilute concentrations. Caution should be used, as Hypochloride can cause pitting and/or
cracking of stainless steel if it is either too concentrated or not completely removed from the surface in a timely
manner.
Disinfect the work area and work surface before and after every procedure.
1.
Disinfect surfaces of all equipment used.
2.
Remove all items from the inside of the cabinet.
