Normec Crowthorne

The KI-Discus test ensures operator protection when using a microbiological safety cabinet, by producing a fine mist of potassium iodide at specific locations and monitoring the amount detected outside the open front of the cabinet. Test failure can be the cabinet, the filtration system or even the environment i.e. room air conditioning.

Originally LEV systems were required to be tested under COSHH Regulation 9. This was a simple test and still has merit as a means of trending, air velocities, alarm function and evidence of containment. However, standards have moved on and with health and safety stricter, HSG258 is now applied and P601 too.

• HSG258 examines the system from the LEV to the outlet after the fan

• P601 examines the process the LEV is being used for, to ensure the system is appropriate for the process

A scheduled fumigation is undertaken to fumigate CL3/4 laboratories and has a documented procedure. An efficacy study provides evidence that the overall fumigation procedure provides a 106 log reduction, as preloaded plates are placed around the room ensuring the fumigation process is correct.

A scheduled fumigation gives access to the laboratory, so the placement of the vaporiser and equipment can be placed in the most efficient positions. Additional conditioning can also be added to the room, for example, heating to ensure the temperature is maintained during the entire fumigation process.

An emergency fumigation is different as entry to the room is not permitted without protective equipment, so you have restricted access to precondition the room. We recommend an efficacy study be undertaken in an emergency fumigation situation to confirm the efficacy of the process. We can document the process, so an emergency fumigation protocol can be produced, or we can issue a protocol for the client.

This is a common question. We recommend that a new installation should be tested, together with the laboratory parameters. This provides a baseline and benchmarks test results for future testing. Also if something changes, for example Laboratory pressure, then you can evidence the original setup and know where to get back to.

As P601 work is only part of what Normec Crowthorne offers, not all engineers hold the same qualifications. However, those who are P601-certified bring with them 10 to 15 years of hands-on experience in this area. We also run an ongoing training programme for P601 engineers — and currently, around 30% of our engineering team hold the qualification.

Yes, in most cases, you can still access the lab when using our peroxide systems. However, formalin fumigation requires a longer dwell time and is typically conducted overnight.