Which HVAC condition is characteristic of a biocontainment facility to contain contaminants?

Which HVAC condition is characteristic of a biocontainment facility to contain contaminants?

• A. A room/area is under negative air pressure
• B. A room is under positive pressure relative to adjacent spaces
• C. Lighting cycles determine containment
• D. Quarantine is the only measure

Answer: (A)

Keeping a biocontainment area under negative air pressure is essential because it creates a one-way flow of air into the room. Air moves from surrounding, cleaner spaces into the containment room and is then exhausted, usually through HEPA filtration, which traps contaminants before air is released. This setup minimizes the chance that contaminants escape to adjacent areas. In contrast, positive pressure would push air out into neighboring spaces, increasing the risk of spreading contaminants. Lighting cycles do not determine containment, and quarantine is a management practice, not a characteristic of the HVAC system.

Keeping a biocontainment area under negative air pressure is essential because it creates a one-way flow of air into the room. Air moves from surrounding, cleaner spaces into the containment room and is then exhausted, usually through HEPA filtration, which traps contaminants before air is released. This setup minimizes the chance that contaminants escape to adjacent areas. In contrast, positive pressure would push air out into neighboring spaces, increasing the risk of spreading contaminants. Lighting cycles do not determine containment, and quarantine is a management practice, not a characteristic of the HVAC system.