New Animal Transfer Station Offers Improved Containment and Allergen Control

When using animals in research, protecting the animal from both the lab environment and cage-to-cage cross-contamination are a researcher's highest priorities. Today, increased awareness of the potential health hazards presented to laboratory workers by animal allergens has led to an increase in the importance of personnel protection as well.

Typically when personnel, product, and environmental protection are required, a Class II biosafety cabinet is used. However, easy access to the work area and maneuverability are key benefits for equipment used for animal transfer and cage-changing procedures, so biosafety cabinets can present some productivity challenges. Recognizing this need, The Baker Company (Baker) developed the AniGARD® e3, a new animal transfer station clean bench designed to enhance containment and protection while increasing productivity.

The AniGARD® e3 was subjected to rigorous testing in the Baker laboratory to determine air cleanliness, protection of the product (animal) from contamination from the environment, potential allergen exposure to the user, as well as cross-contamination between cages. Because there is no established industry standard or test for quantifying the level of protection and containment in an animal transfer station, Baker adapted existing standards. Armed with this data, a laboratory manager or researcher can be assured that the AniGARD e3® will fit their needs as determined by a risk analysis.