Performance Testing - Introduction

Microbiological Testing and Physical Testing

Physical testing is done in the field to verify (certify) that the cabinet functions as originally designed and operates as the representative cabinet (same model and size) did when it was microbiologically tested at NSF International. The physical tests are covered on the following pages.

Microbiological testing of cabinets is done by some manufacturers and by NSF International. These tests prove that the BSC provides product and personnel protection and therefore it is a Class II Biological Safety Cabinet.

Microbiological Tests

	Personnel Protection Test
	Three replications of the test All must pass 100 million to 800 million spores sprayed from inside toward the outside No more than 10 colony forming units allowed

	Product Protection Test
	Three replications of the test All must pass 1 million to 8 million spores sprayed through the access opening at the top of the opening No more than 5 colony forming units allowed

	Cross-Contamination Test
	Three replications of the test from each end All must pass 10,000 to 80,000 spores are sprayed across the work surface No more that 2 colony forming units allowed