Cleanrooms and laboratory enclosures are specially designed environments used to maintain low levels of contaminants such as dust, airborne microbes, aerosol particles, and chemical vapors. They are crucial in various industries including pharmaceuticals, electronics manufacturing, biotech, and scientific research, among others.

Cleanroom Enclosures:

  1. Purpose:
    • Maintain a contamination-free environment.
    • Control environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and pressure.
  2. Types:
    • ISO Class 1 to 9: The ISO 14644-1 classification is based on the number of particles per cubic meter at specific particle sizes. Class 1 is the cleanest.
    • Federal Standard 209E Classes: Although largely outdated, some still refer to Class 1, 10, 100, 1,000, 10,000, and 100,000 based on particles per cubic foot.
  3. Features:
    • High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) or Ultra Low Penetration Air (ULPA) Filters: Essential for trapping particulates and ensuring clean air.
    • Air Showers: Used for removing surface contaminants from personnel before entering.
    • Pass-Through Chambers: Allow materials to be transferred into the cleanroom without contamination.
    • Positive Pressure: Prevents inflow of contaminated air.
  4. Maintenance:
    • Frequent cleaning with special non-linting wipes and cleaners.
    • Regular replacement of air filters.
    • Regular monitoring of environmental parameters.

Laboratory Enclosures:

  1. Purpose:
    • Protect users from hazardous fumes, vapors, and particulates.
    • Prevent cross-contamination of experiments.
    • Contain biological hazards.
  2. Types:
    • Fume Hoods: Ventilated enclosures where toxic or volatile chemicals are handled.
    • Biosafety Cabinets (BSC): Enclosures used to work with pathogens. There are three classes (I, II, III) depending on the level of protection.
    • Laminar Flow Hoods: Provide a particulate-free working environment, commonly used for tissue culture or semiconductor fabrication.
    • Glove Boxes: Sealed enclosures allowing manipulation of objects inside, using gloves.
  3. Features:
    • Exhaust Fans and Vents: Remove hazardous fumes and vapors.
    • HEPA/ULPA Filters: In BSCs and laminar flow hoods for clean air.
    • Sash: A transparent sliding door on fume hoods.
    • UV Lights: In BSCs for sterilization.
  4. Maintenance:
    • Regular testing and certification to ensure proper airflow and containment.
    • Cleaning using appropriate disinfectants or cleaners.
    • Replacement of filters as needed.

Both cleanrooms and laboratory enclosures are essential for ensuring safety and the integrity of work processes. Regular maintenance and user training are crucial to ensure they function optimally and safely.