Handling of hazardous and toxic substances (OEB 5 to OEB 6)

Hazard Classification (EPO, PEL, OEL)

There are several “classes” of containment systems. The “class” is chosen according to the system’s field of use and also according to its application. Specific threshold values are set by the legislator for each product. These threshold values enable the selection of appropriate components, systems or working procedures for handling hazardous and toxic substances.

Several classifications or threshold values exist:

The OEB value

The Occupation Exposure Band (OEB) is a technique that involves accurately classifying chemicals into “bands” or “categories” according to their harmful effects on health. It only takes into account the toxicity of the pure substance. It is based on the principle that the more toxic a product is, the higher its classification.

The toxicity and hazard classification of a product is based on a number of data points: acute toxicity, eye damage, skin and respiratory sensitisation, skin corrosion and irritation, carcinogenicity, etc. Based on the classification obtained, it is possible to determine the equipment required to ensure safe handling. Depending on the degree of hazard, the operator may need a certified containment space ranging from BSL1 (least hazardous) to BSL6 (most hazardous) to protect them from risks.

The OEL value

The OEL (Occupational Exposure Limit) value corresponds to the weighted average concentration of a substance in the air at the workplace. It is measured over a predefined period of time. In this environment, there is no risk of acute or chronic damage to employees’ health as long as the value is not exceeded. Expressed in mg/m3, fibres/CC or parts per million (ppm), the classification aims to protect exposed personnel from occupational diseases.

When handling hazardous and toxic substances, the use of a sealed solution is not sufficient, regardless of their classification (OEB 5 to OEB6). The operator must use a closed and tight process to protect themselves effectively.

The pharmaceutical industry needs pharmaceutical isolators that guarantee a bacteriologically sealed containment space. In order for the handling of hazardous and toxic substances to take place under optimal conditions, the working environment must have a high level of safety.

Today’s manufacturers favour innovative solutions, such as the toxic isolator designed by EREA. The latter has the particularity of offering total protection and is effective for high-containment tasks.

Handling of hazardous and toxic substances

The need for containment solutions has been growing steadily in recent years. For the pharmaceutical industry in particular, they need closed, dust-free systems for the production of potent active ingredients. In order for the handling of hazardous and toxic substances to proceed properly, the working environment in which the employees operate must have a high level of safety.

Today, many companies are moving away from full protective suits. Their employees no longer work under a more open process. The concern with these traditional solutions is that they present a very high risk of contamination. For this reason, manufacturers are turning to more innovative solutions, such as toxic isolators. The latter has the particularity of offering maximum protection thanks to its various elements, such as the protective cover and the glove box. Toxic isolators are very effective for high containment missions thanks to their tight and closed process.

Isolators for toxic processes

Isolators for toxic processes are extremely useful in the pharmaceutical industry for protecting products, personnel and the environment. They offer a high level of safety in accordance with the requirements of the standards and regulations governing the industry.

The advantages of isolators for handling toxic products

Increased safety to meet standards

Standards require the use of appropriate equipment for handling toxic products in laboratories or in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industries. The use of isolators has become widespread, as this equipment creates a confined space that allows highly active or dangerous substances to be handled safely.

Effective protection for all elements involved

These isolators protect operators and the environment during processes. At the same time, products are protected from external contaminants.

A wide range of models

To contain your toxic processes, you can choose from a variety of isolator models. EREA offers them in its catalogue for your convenience. They allow you to handle and package toxic and cytotoxic products.

An effective barrier system

The enclosure is equipped with a sealed, airtight barrier system. This allows you to safely handle highly active or hazardous substances.

Cutting-edge technologies for excellent results

Available in laminar flow and turbulent flow models, our equipment combines toxicity and sterility (EBF class with negative pressure of -80 Pa). Equipped with high-efficiency filters (HEPA), they incorporate a hydrogen peroxide (H202) biodecontamination system.

A controlled indoor environment

You can control the indoor environment by adjusting the temperature, humidity and pressure. EREA isolators for toxic and cytotoxic processes are equipped with a transfer system that prevents the breach of aseptic and containment conditions.

How to choose the right isolator for your pharmaceutical process?

When it comes to containment solutions for toxic or hazardous processes, there is a wide range of options available. At EREA, for example, you can choose between a laminar flow isolator or a Class A (ISO 5) certified turbulent flow isolator. For toxic processes, a turbulent flow isolator is recommended. You can adjust the equipment to operate in positive or negative pressure mode. Negative pressure mode is chosen for handling cytotoxic or hazardous compounds or agents. Furthermore, before choosing an isolator for toxic processes, make sure that it is Class A (or ISO 5). This is important to ensure that your processes comply with current standards. EREA solutions are Class A (ISO 5) certified.

In addition to isolators, EREA offers other containment solutions for pharmaceutical processes, such as toxic isolators and restricted access barrier systems (RABS). This equipment is ideal for protecting your APIs and your operators. Depending on the requirements and constraints of your processes, you can order customised solutions. To help you choose or specify your isolator or RABS, please do not hesitate to seek assistance from our experts.

Why choose EREA Pharma for your isolator?

Need an isolator for handling your hazardous or toxic products? Then, offer a maximum level of safety to your employees and protect their working environment by choosing the custom-made sterile or toxic isolator manufactured by EREA Pharma. This equipment has many features and it is equipped with wall penetrations that guarantee the tightness of the work environment. It is also ergonomic since it is possible to adjust the height of its frame. In addition, the EREA Pharma toxic isolator can offer you several workstations, the number of which can be customized depending on your company’s needs.

Opt for the EREA brand toxic isolator as it benefits from a “tightness class” 1 and 2. In addition, the containment solution meets OEB 5 and 6 requirements. Before handling hazardous and toxic substances, your employees are able to define their working environment in advance, by adjusting the temperature, vacuum and humidity. A dimmable RGB LED lighting system is also integrated to provide optimal working conditions. If you have specific needs, please let us know so that we can provide you with a custom-made toxic isolator. Need a quote? Contact us !