The University of Oxford has partnered with the Department for Pandemic Prevention on ground-breaking work to develop therapeutic vaccines against life-threatening viruses. This vital research will advance our understanding of biological mechanisms within the human body while equipping scientists with crucial knowledge for future pandemic preparedness. To support this important mission, the university needed a bespoke Class II biosafety solution capable of accommodating up to four researchers working simultaneously in a safe, collaborative space.
Project Name
Project Bugbear
Location
Oxford
Sector
Biotechnology Research
Client
The University of Oxford
Company Bio
Shaping minds since 1096. The University of Oxford is a world-renowned educational institution where Nobel laureates are made, boundaries are broken, and the future is written.
About this case study:
Brief
The University of Oxford approached TION with an important, yet straightforward challenge. The faculty within the IMS Tetsuya Nakamura Building required a dedicated research space where small teams of 3 to 4 scientists could collaborate on hazardous biological research. The solution had to be intelligent, enabling simultaneous work while emphasising the safety and security of the technicians inside the lab.
Solution
To counter this challenge, TION designed a bespoke, mild-steel biosafety cabinet measuring 2.4 meters wide. The recirculating Class II unit came equipped with H14 HEPA filters for superior protection, plus a sleek nine-inch touch-screen control interface. TION's proprietary red-light alarm system provides instant visual alerts, while the intuitive design maximises airflow efficiency, allowing multiple researchers to work at the same bench.
Outcome
The installation presented genuine complexity. While the second-floor lab had a goods elevator, assembling the stand within an ISO 5 cleanroom environment proved challenging. Our logistics teams rose to the occasion, navigating stringent cleanroom protocols with precision and skill. Assembly proceeded smoothly, with commissioning following seamlessly. The result delivers exceptional performance with an inflow velocity of 0.5 m/s and inflow of 0.33 m/s.
Summary
Engineering a bespoke Class II biosafety cabinet demands precision at every turn. Balancing rigorous safety protocols with containment requirements while delivering our signature craftsmanship creates a complex design puzzle. The finished cabinet found its perfect home within the laboratory, establishing a fortress of protection for sensitive biological work. This innovative solution empowers teams to operate side by side, unlocking significant gains in productivity.
"I was very happy with the support provided by TION"
The University of Oxford
Laboratory manager
Equipment Used In This Project
Biosafety
Biosafety Cabinets
TION's biosafety cabinets isolate hazardous biological materials, preventing cross-contamination between the user, the sample and their environment. Ensuring your operators are safe & secure 24 hours a day.
