Hazards of Circulating Air Contaminated by Unsealed Radioisotopes in Clean Benches and Safety Cabinets

In medical and biological RI facilities, the use of clean benches, which are essential for aseptic manipulation during cell handling, and safety cabinets for biohazard control of infectious biological samples are essential. These devices are equipped with HEPA filters, which are effective in removing particulate matter in the air supply and exhaust. Although these devices are similar in form, their functions are completely different, and if used incorrectly, workers can be exposed to hazardous substances. Especially, when circulating airflow type equipment is used, air contaminated by some nuclides in unsealed RI may circulate in the cabinet, potentially contaminating worker’s hands and samples. Therefore, this paper outlines the features and differences of each type of equipment and discusses ideas and methods for improving and enhancing the working environment level.