SOP for Operating Procedure of Culture Cabinet

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SOP for Operating Procedure of Culture Cabinet

1.0 Purpose

To define the procedure for safe and effective operation of the culture cabinet (biosafety cabinet/laminar air flow unit) used for handling microbial cultures, sterile media, and aseptic manipulations in microbiology laboratories.

2.0 Scope

This SOP applies to all personnel using the culture cabinet for microbiological and aseptic operations in the Quality Control Microbiology Laboratory.

3.0 Responsibility

  • QC Microbiologist/Analyst: Operate the culture cabinet as per SOP and maintain aseptic technique.
  • Microbiology Head/QA: Ensure proper training, compliance, and monitoring of culture cabinet usage.
  • Engineering Department: Maintain, service, and calibrate the cabinet.

4.0 Definitions

  • Culture Cabinet/Laminar Air Flow (LAF): An enclosed workbench designed to provide a sterile work environment by supplying HEPA-filtered air in a laminar flow.
  • Biosafety Cabinet (BSC): A ventilated cabinet designed to protect personnel, product, and environment when working with biohazards.

5.0 Materials and Equipment

  • Culture cabinet (LAF/BSC)
  • Disinfectant (70% IPA or validated disinfectant)
  • Sterile wipes and tissue
  • UV light (if installed)
  • Timer/stopwatch

6.0 Procedure

6.1 Pre-Operation Checks

  1. Ensure the cabinet has been serviced and certified as per schedule.
  2. Check the airflow indicator/alarm system for proper functioning.
  3. Verify cleanliness of the cabinet; clean with sterile wipes and 70% IPA before use.
  4. Ensure UV light (if present) is switched off at least 15 minutes before starting work.
  5. Switch on the cabinet blower at least 15 minutes prior to work to purge air.

6.2 Operation

  1. Wear appropriate PPE (lab coat, sterile gloves, mask, and if needed, goggles).
  2. Disinfect gloves with 70% IPA before entering the work area.
  3. Place only necessary sterile materials inside the cabinet; avoid overloading.
  4. Arrange materials to minimize cross-contamination (sterile items on one side, used/contaminated on the other).
  5. Work at least 4–6 inches inside the cabinet to avoid turbulence.
  6. Minimize arm movements in and out of the cabinet.
  7. Do not block air grills at the front or back.
  8. Perform aseptic manipulations as per microbiological techniques.

6.3 Post-Operation

  1. Remove all materials after disinfecting external surfaces with 70% IPA.
  2. Wipe down the interior of the cabinet with 70% IPA.
  3. Run the blower for at least 10–15 minutes after completion of work.
  4. Switch off the blower.
  5. If UV light is installed, switch it on after completing work and leaving the area.

6.4 Cleaning and Maintenance

  1. Perform routine cleaning before and after each use.
  2. Use validated disinfectants in rotation to prevent resistance.
  3. Replace pre-filters/HEPA filters as per schedule or when differential pressure indicates clogging.
  4. Document all maintenance and certification activities.

7.0 Precautions

  • Never use open flames inside the cabinet.
  • Avoid blocking airflow grills.
  • Do not store unnecessary items inside.
  • Always follow aseptic practices.

8.0 Documentation

  • Maintain a logbook for each cabinet, recording operator name, date, time of use, cleaning, and any observations.
  • Record certification, filter change, and maintenance details.

9.0 References

  • WHO Laboratory Biosafety Manual
  • USP <797> Pharmaceutical Compounding — Sterile Preparations
  • EU GMP Annex 1: Manufacture of Sterile Medicinal Products

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Posted on

August 28, 2025

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