Advances In Ventilated Balance Enclosure Technology Bring Safety Enhancements To The Pharmaceutical Industry

By Labconco

Prescription drug development continues to increase in importance. In 2006, U.S. biopharmaceutical companies invested $56.1B in research and development of which $44.9B was conducted in the U.S. In 2008 alone, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration approved 24 new drugs. Pharmaceutical, biotechnology, chemical and healthcare companies are involved in the effort to identify new compounds that will ultimately become the drugs of tomorrow. To find appropriate methods for handling and weighing toxic compounds while minimizing exposure among workers developing and producing these advanced medicines, scientists rely on industrial hygienists and environmental health and safety officers.

Because laboratory workers risk exposure to many toxins and suspected carcinogens, engineering controls and safe work practices should be used to reduce worker exposure as much as possible. Rapid advancements in biotechnology and pharmaceutical research mean companies shoulder the constant challenge and responsibility of protecting workers using and measuring toxic agents in dynamic laboratory environments.

Recent advancements in balance enclosure design have resulted in products with high performance features that provide greater containment capabilities and safety for workers when compared to conventional balance enclosures used in pharmaceutical applications. For example, the XPert® line of Balance Enclosures, Systems and Stations by Labconco Corporation offers features designed to direct airflow and provide enhanced containment to minimize worker exposure to contaminants.