KI-Discus Testing
Professional KI-Discus testing for microbiological safety cabinets (MBSCs) with fast reporting, certified engineers, and full compliance assurance.
Potassium Iodide Discus Testing
What Is KI-Discus Testing?
KI-Discus testing checks how well a microbiological safety cabinet (MSC) contains aerosols and protects the operator.
A fine potassium iodide (KI) mist is released inside the cabinet using a spinning-disc generator. To see if any of this mist escapes, centripetal collectors are placed inside or just outside the front opening to capture airborne particles on small filter membranes.
After sampling, the membranes are dipped in a palladium chloride solution. Any trapped droplets develop into visible grey or brown spots.
The grey and brown dots are used to calculate the operator protection factor. Any value above 1 × 10⁵ is considered non-compliant.
KI-Discus testing is the recognised method for assessing operator protection in open-fronted microbiological safety cabinets, as specified in EN 12469.
Confidence in Air System Compliance
Why Is KI-Discus Testing Important?
KI-Discus testing confirms whether your safety cabinet is protecting laboratory personnel from exposure to hazardous aerosols, pathogens, or particulates.
It provides confidence that your cabinet is functioning correctly and meeting compliance requirements.
KI-Discus testing:
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Demonstrates the containment performance of the cabinet
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Ensures compliance with EN 12469 and laboratory quality standards
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Protects staff from exposure to harmful aerosols
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Identifies leaks, airflow issues, or mechanical faults
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Ensures safe operation during sensitive laboratory processes
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Prevents downtime by detecting problems early
Regular KI-Discus testing is essential wherever operator safety and reliable containment cannot be compromised.
Industry-Specific KI-Discus Testing
Industries We Support
We provide KI-Discus testing across a range of sectors, including:
Universities
Pharmacy
Biomedical
Microbiology
Hospitals
Biotechnology Facilities
Clinical Labs
Cleanrooms
What’s Involved in a KI-Discus Test?
Cabinet Inspection
We assess the MSC’s condition, airflow, filters, and operating environment.
KI Aerosol Generation
A controlled potassium iodide mist is released inside the cabinet using a spinning-disc generator.
Air Sampling
Centripetal samplers collect any KI particles that escape past the working aperture.
Analysis & OPF Calculation
Collected samples are carefully treated and analysed to count KI spots and accurately determine the Operator Protection Factor.
Certification & Report
You receive a full report including results, compliance status, and any recommended actions. Most tests are completed quickly, with minimal downtime for your laboratory.
KI-Discus Testing FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What does KI-Discus testing measure?
It measures how effectively a safety cabinet prevents hazardous aerosols from escaping and protects the operator.
Is KI-Discus testing required for EN 12469 compliance?
Yes. It is the recognised method for evaluating operator protection in MSCs under EN 12469.
How often should KI-Discus testing be carried out?
Typically, every 12 months, or every 6 months in higher-risk environments.
Is KI-Discus safe?
Yes. Potassium iodide (KI) is harmless and leaves no lasting residue.
Precision Testing by Experts
Why Choose Us for KI-Discus Testing?
- Certified MSC and containment-testing engineers
- Extensive experience across laboratory, pharmaceutical, and research environments
- Fully compliant KI-Discus testing (EN 12469)
- Accurate measurements with calibrated equipment
- Clear, easy-to-understand reports
- Minimal disruption to your laboratory operations
- Fast response times and dependable support
We deliver precise, reliable containment testing to keep your people and processes protected.
Built on Compliance and Safety Excellence
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Why choose Impact
We are a single-source provider for all workplace dust, fume, vapour and oil mist extraction requirements.
From LEV testing and system design to installation and ongoing maintenance, our services are delivered by BOHS-qualified technicians and overseen by CoC-qualified management — ensuring fully compliant, reliable and effective extraction solutions throughout the life of your system.
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12 month warranty on all installations