SKAN Removal and Disposal Service

Applications

Laboratory equipment

Frequently asked questions

• How ist laboratory equipment disposed of?

  Disposal at SKAN is as structured as a relocation – in close coordination with you and in compliance with all legal and safety requirements.

  Together, we first assess the conditions at the current site. This includes checking whether the device is biologically or cytotoxically contaminated.

  In the case of cytotoxic systems, we evaluate whether dismantling of the affected equipment is necessary and whether two or three filters are installed. If required, a decontamination or declaration of non-hazardous condition will also be arranged in advance.

  Our experienced technicians handle the professional dismantling of the system directly on-site, including the use of lifting equipment. Transport and safe disposal or recycling are then carried out in accordance with applicable regulations – fully organized by SKAN.

  For non-contaminated equipment, the disposal process is simplified – but always handled with the same care and attention to detail.

• What happens to contaminated filter and/or systems?

  You don’t have to worry about a thing: SKAN takes care of the entire process, including the proper disposal of contaminated equipment and filters.

  Before transfer, we prepare a declaration of non-hazardous condition, including details on usage, contamination, and any hazardous substances.
  Disposal is then carried out by a certified partner – safely, with full documentation, and in full legal compliance.

• Why must BSL-2 or higher classified equipment be decontaminated before disposal?

  Because BSL-2 and higher safety levels involve substances that can be hazardous to humans and the environment.

  To protect everyone involved – from laboratory staff to technicians handling dismantling and disposal – the equipment is decontaminated using a tested and validated procedure.

  Only after this process can it be safely disposed of without any concerns.

• Why is wipe disinfection of the work chamber and surfaces considered decontamination?

  Wipe disinfection of these areas provides only a superficial form of decontamination. However, for equipment used in BSL-2 or higher laboratories, this is not sufficient.

  In such cases, the interior of the equipment, all areas within the housing, must be thoroughly decontaminated. This requires a validated procedure that reliably demonstrates complete decontamination of all internal components.

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