Isolators, glove boxes, RABS, C-RABS: what are they and what are the differences?

In this article, we will try to shed light on the different containment systems for highly active substances produced by Comecer.

Glove boxes: to prevent contamination of the product, the environment or the operator.

These are simple containment systems and are used to prevent contamination of the material to be handled, the surrounding environment and the operator.

• They are constructed of a transparent material such as Plexiglas.
• They are equipped with gloves that allow handling while preventing direct contact with the product.
• They are not equipped with a ventilation system.

Isolators: for toxic material.

A vast family of solutions for handling toxic material, which serve to protect the operator and the environment.

• They are used when the product to be handled is toxic.
• They are used to protect the operator and the environment.
• Each product is characterized by an Operator Exposure Level (OEL), expressed in mg/m³; µg/m³ or ng/m³
• Isolators operate at a pressure below that of the laboratory where they are installed.
• Using an accurate pressure control system, isolators have to guarantee an internal pressure lower than the external pressure (Dp = 50¸ 250 pascals).

If an accident occurs (leakage, glove breakage, etc.), the system must be able to maintain the correct Dp in order to prevent any possible leakage of toxic product (powder, liquid or gaseous).

RABS (Restricted-access barrier system):

• these are barriers that restrict access to a well-determined area.
• They serve to maintain a classified air flow (normally A, B or C) on a certain area.
• If the air flow is interrupted, the area is downgraded to the same level as the laboratory.
• The air used is dispersed in the laboratory.
• They cannot be sterilized with VHP.
• They are not suitable for highly toxic products.
• The air flow maintains the area inside the RABS at a pressure slightly higher than the laboratory.

C-RABS (Closed RABS):

• They are used when the product to be handled is toxic.
• The containment cabin serves to protect the operator and the environment.
  • Each product is characterized by an Operator Exposure Level (OEL), expressed in mg/m³; µg/m³ or ng/m³
  • If the air flow is interrupted, the protection is interrupted.
  • Air is allowed to enter from the laboratory.
  • Air is not allowed to exit the cabin.