For almost 25 years, the standard EN 12469 has defined the basic requirements for microbiological safety cabinets (MSC). As a mainstay of European standardisation – and as a counterpart to the US standard NSF/ANSI 49 – it describes performance criteria and suitable tests to ensure the required protective functions. MSCs that are found to be safe according to these specifications can or must be used in laboratories for handling (genetically modified) biological agents based on a corresponding risk assessment. Compliance with EN 12469 guarantees robust containment for the protection of personnel and product.

Despite general acceptance, the unclear structure, partly imprecise or complicated specifications, but above all an increased safety and ergonomic need, have made a revision of EN 12469 necessary. In July 2024, a draft of a new version was presented by expert committees from various European countries. This draft allows a first look at the modified and added requirements that MSCs will have to meet in the future.

The lecture will present and evaluate important changes in the draft standard compared to the current version. The revision particularly concerns the operating conditions for MSCs, the testing of their protective functions, and the structure of the new standard, which is expected to be published in 2025.