A clean bench, or laminar flow cabinet, is an enclosed workstation that provides a contaminant-free environment, thanks to its integrated filtered air supply. Originally utilized in research and manufacturing, clean benches are now widely used in aerospace, biosciences, pharmaceuticals, and food processing.
These benches are equipped with a non-ducted air filtration system that ensures the purity of the work area by preventing airborne contamination. The adoption of clean benches is rising for several reasons. They recycle air, reducing environmental impact. They don’t emit hazardous emissions. The initial costs are relatively low, and they demand minimal maintenance—mainly just yearly filter changes. Moreover, they’re designed for immediate use and easy installation without the need for complex HVAC systems. Portability is another key feature; they operate on standard electrical power. Safety is paramount, as they include monitoring systems with alarms that adhere to the standards set by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH).
Despite their growing use, there is a knowledge gap regarding the maintenance required to keep clean benches operational and compliant. The infographic titled “Clean Bench Testing and Maintenance” provides a detailed checklist for regular tests that should be conducted according to the Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology (IEST) guidelines and manufacturer recommendations.
To learn more, please review the resource created by Technical Safety Services below.
Infographic created by Technical Safety Services
