Patent Abstract:
A system includes a portable source of gaseous chlorine dioxide (CD) to be generated within an isolated chamber or tent structure enclosing the device to be treated. A portable scrubber has first sourced couplings for sealingly connecting to a scrubbing flow path comprising at least one gas conduit for removing the CD from the device enclosed within an isolated chamber or tent structure. The gas conduit may have second couplings for connecting the device or isolated chamber or tent structure to the scrubbing flow path by way of a connection panel to complete a closed, filtered gas loop.

Full Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention relates to decontamination systems and methods. 
         [0002]    BACKGROUND 
         [0003]    Class I or Class II (laminar flow) biological safety cabinets are designed to minimize hazards inherent in work with biological agents. BSC&#39;s can be used for work with biological agents assigned to biosafety levels 1 through 4, depending on the facility design as described in the CDC/NIH publication Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories. A BSC is a ventilated device for personnel, product, and environmental protection having an open front with inward airflow for personnel protection, downward HEPA filtered laminar airflow for product protection, and REM filtered exhausted air for environmental protection. 
         [0004]    Class III BSC&#39;s or isolators are similar to Class I or II but incorporate glove ports. 
         [0005]    Recommendations and requirements to certify BSC&#39;s come from a variety of sources. All manufacturers and NSF International recommend field certification of BSC&#39;s. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and NIH state that it is essential that Class I, II and Ill BSC&#39;s be tested and certified. 
         [0006]    Decontamination is a key component of certification and/or maintenance activities. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0007]    In some embodiments, a system comprises a portable source of gaseous chlorine dioxide (CD) located in an enclosure. An isolated chamber or a flexible tent to form a sealed enclosure for containing a device to be treated with the CD. 
         [0008]    In some embodiments, a system comprises a portable source of gaseous chlorine dioxide (CD) located in an enclosure. The source has first couplings for sealingly connecting a portable scrubber connecting to a scribing flow path comprising at least one gas conduit for removing the CD from the device. 
         [0009]    In some embodiments, a system comprises a portable source of gaseous chlorine dioxide (CD) located in an enclosure. The source has first couplings for sealingly connecting a portable scrubber connecting to a scrubbing flow path comprising at least one gas conduit for removing the CD from the device. The gas conduit has second couplings for connecting the device to the scrubbing flow path to create a closed scrubbing loop. 
         [0010]    In some embodiments, a system comprises a portable source of gaseous chlorine dioxide (CD) located in an enclosure. The source has first couplings for sealingly connecting the building exhaust system or HVAC exhaust system to at least one gas conduit for removing the CD from the device. The source has second couplings connecting to the connection panel, which allows for fresh air to enter and replace the CD gas surrounding the device. 
         [0011]    In some embodiments, a method comprises forming a flexible tent film material or solid isolated enclosure to form a gas-tight enclosure around a device to be treated and joining this to at least one panel having fittings for connecting to gas conduits. The gas conduits are connected to the fittings and to couplings of a portable charcoal scrubber. A source of gaseous chlorine dioxide (CD) is located in the enclosure, so as to form a sealed CD generation chamber wherein the CD generating reaction occurs. Gaseous CD is generated from the source within the chamber to treat the device. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0012]      FIG. 1A  is a schematic diagram of one embodiment, during operation in a ClO 2  generation mode. 
           [0013]      FIG. 1B  is a schematic diagram of system of  FIG. 1A , during operation in a ClO, open scrubbing mode. 
           [0014]      FIG. 1C  is a schematic diagram of system of  FIG. 1A , during operation in a ClO, closed scrubbing mode. 
           [0015]      FIG. 1D  is a schematic diagram of the system if  FIG. 1A , during operation in a ClO, building exhaust/HVAC exhaust mode. 
           [0016]      FIG. 2  is a view of the connection panel. 
           [0017]      FIG. 3A  is a view of the scrubber assembly of  FIG. 1A . 
           [0018]      FIG. 3B  is a view of the scrubber assembly of  FIG. 1B . 
           [0019]      FIG. 4  is a view of the CD Generation Equipment of  FIG. 1A . 
           [0020]      FIG. 5  is a top level flow diagram of a method of using the system of  1 A. 
           [0021]      FIG. 6  is a flow chart of the chamber preparation process of  FIG. 5 . 
           [0022]      FIG. 7  is a flow chart of the exhaust/aeration preparation process of  FIG. 5 . 
           [0023]      FIG. 8  is a flow chart of intake preparation process solids of  FIG. 5 . 
           [0024]      FIG. 9  is a flow chart of determining the amount of CD chemicals required of  FIG. 5 . 
           [0025]      FIG. 10  is a flow chart of the CD generation preparation process of  FIG. 5 . 
           [0026]      FIG. 11  is a flow chart of the decontamination cycle of  FIG. 5 . 
           [0027]      FIG. 12  is a flow chart of the scrubbing cycle of  FIG. 5 . 
           [0028]      FIG. 13  is a flow chart of the neutralization process of  FIG. 5 . 
           [0029]      FIG. 14  is a flow chart of the post-decontamination procedure of  FIG. 5 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0030]    This description of the exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description, relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,”, “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivative thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation. Terms concerning attachments, coupling and the like, such as “connected” and “interconnected,” refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. 
         [0031]    One embodiment provides an apparatus and method to produce a gas for gaseous decontamination to reduce microorganisms thereon by treating a device (such as a BSC) or item(s) in a temporary enclosed sealed space or chamber. The apparatus includes a gas generating apparatus and a means for removing the gas that is comprised of supply and return ducting with couplings connected to inlet and outlet ports affixed to respective connection panels incorporated onto the device or temporary enclosed sealed space. The apparatus has a closed chamber of gas-tight construction isolated from the ambient space. 
         [0032]    The corresponding embodiment of a method comprises exposing the device or item(s) in a temporary enclosed sealed space or chamber to an atmosphere comprising gaseous chlorine dioxide. It may comprise controlling the concentration and required time cycles of chlorine dioxide generation, dwell and rapid removal. This embodiment of a method also provides the proper humidity to enhance the susceptibility of microorganisms and/or sporicidal action of chlorine dioxide. Neutralizer is added to the residual waste liquid within the apparatus, following which the waste liquid may be discarded by conventional or future developed means. The chlorine dioxide gas is produced from a precursor A and B solid chemical, mixed into an aqueous solution, then transformed to a gaseous state. The method may also be used with larger devices or sealed spaces with additional quantities of Chlorine Dioxide generating chemicals. Additional items may be added to the space under decontamination. 
         [0033]    Embodiments may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement of parts, a preferred embodiment of is described in detail below and illustrated in the drawings. 
         [0034]      FIGS. 1A ,  1 B,  1 C and  1 D are schematic views of a Chem CD decontamination system  8833 . The Chem CD  8833  system includes connection panel  200 , a scrubber  300 , and a source  400 . The system is capable of being operated in a chlorine dioxide (CD or ClO 2 ) generation mode or in a scrubbing mode. The CD generation mode flow path is shown in  FIG. 1A . The open scrubbing mode flow path is shown in  FIG. 1B . The closed scrubbing mode flow path is shown in  FIG. 1C . The building exhaust/HVAC exhaust mode flow path is shown in  FIG. 1D . 
         [0035]      FIG. 1A  shows a device under decontamination  100 . In other embodiments, the device under decontamination  100  is surrounded by a gas tight tent/enclosure  101 , which is in turn connected to the connection panel  200  ( FIG. 2 ). 
         [0036]    An optional biological indicator (not shown) can be placed within the decontamination zone. The device under decontamination  100  is then sealed, incorporating into the connection panel  200  ( FIG. 2 ) a inlet  201  and outlet port  202  for use with the Chem CD  8833  system. In some embodiments, to accomplish the seal, the tent material is taped using a suitable pressure sensitive adhesive tape (such as duct tape) to a connection panel  200  ( FIG. 2 ) having the inlet port  201  and/or outlet port  202 . After an appropriate set up has been achieved, Chlorine Dioxide (ClO 2 ) is produced and released and the decontamination cycle begins.  FIG. 1B ,  1 C and  1 D show the apparatus with the CD scrubbing flow paths activated. After a suitable exposure time specified by NSF (e.g. 85 minutes), ClO 2  gas is removed from the device under decontamination  100  using one of the scrubbing cycles of the Chem CD  8833  system. After a suitable scrubbing time (e.g., approximately 45 minutes), the Chem CD  8833  system is neutralized and the device under decontamination  100  and the gas tight enclosure  101  may be unsealed. 
         [0037]      FIGS. 1A ,  1 B,  1 C and  1 D show a Chem CD decontamination system  8833  using chlorine dioxide (ClO 2 ) gas. The Chem CD  8833  system and the equipment ( FIG. 4 ) is placed within a temporary enclosed sealed space  101  under decontamination. By way of example, and not limited to, a temporary enclosed sealed space  101  may take the form of a Class II type A1, A2, B1, and B2 biological safety cabinet (BSC), Class I BSC, Class III BSC, negative or positive isolators, animal devices, incubators, refrigerators and freezers, room or any other potentially contaminated item(s). The Chem CD  8833  system may be used with devices or temporary enclosed sealed spaces having a volume of typically less than 120 ft 3  (3.4 m 3 ). The Chem CD  8833  system may also be used with larger devices or sealed spaces with additional quantities of ClO 2  generating chemicals. Additional items may be added to the space under decontamination. 
         [0038]    System  8833  includes a “gas tight” system that is comprised of conduit connected between inlet port  201  and outlet port  202  of device  100  or temporary enclosed sealed space  101 . In some embodiments to seal or affix to the device  100  or temporary enclosed sealed space  101  under decontamination, a connection panel  200  is provided. Quick disconnect couplings  304 ,  305  (which may include locking levers or other positive sealing mechanisms) connect the lines from the scrubbing loop to the connection panel  200  and to the Chem CD  8833  system. CD Generation Flow Path (represented by the bolded arrows)  FIG. 1A : ClO, generation source  400 , is placed within the gas tight enclosure  101 . CD chemical (CD precursor A)  401  is added to the CD generating source  400  and then 250 ml of water  407  is added. Then CD chemical (CD precursor B)  402  is added to CD chemical (CD precursor A)  401 , the CD generating source  400 , and 250 ml of water  407  resulting in the generation of ClO, gas. 
         [0039]    ClO 2  open scrubbing path (represented by bolded arrows)  FIG. 1B : The charcoal scrubber  300  is place outside the gas tight enclosure  101 . The blower  303  is located within the open scrubbing loop including the supply ducting  302 , attachment couplings  304 ,  305 ,  306 , screens  307   a,    307   b,  charcoal  301  and Chem CD  8833  system. The ClO 2  scrubbing blower  303  is driven by a motor (not shown). The blower  303  is sized to provide a high airflow volume to quickly scrub the CIO 2  gas from the device under decontamination  100 . 
         [0040]    ClO 2  closed scrubbing path (represented by bolded arrows)  FIG. 1C : The charcoal scrubber  300  is place outside the gas tight enclosure  101 . The blower  303  is located within the closed scrubbing loop including the supply ducting  302 , the scrubber  300 , attachment couplings  304 ,  305 ,  306 , screens  307   a,    307   b,  charcoal  301  and Chem CD  8833  system. The ClO 2  scrubbing blower  303  is driven by a motor (not shown). The blower  303  is sized to provide a high airflow volume to quickly scrub the ClO 2  gas from the device under decontamination  100 . 
         [0041]    ClO 2  building exhaust/HVAC exhaust path (represented by bolded arrows)  FIG. 1D : The building exhaust./HVAC exhaust system  310  is attached to the connection panel  200  including the supply ducting  302 , attachment couplings  305 ,  309  screens and building exhaust/HVAC exhaust system  310 . The ClO 2  scrubbing blower  303  is driven by a motor (not shown). The building exhaust/HVAC exhaust system  310  is sized to provide a high airflow volume to quickly scrub the ClO 2  gas from the device under decontamination  100 . 
         [0042]    A ClO 2  generator within the Chem CD  8833  system includes a CD generating source/reservoir  400 , CD precursor A  401 , CD precursor B  402 , measuring cup  404 , and a porous splash guard  405 . ClO 2  is generated within CD generating source/reservoir  400  and is contained within the temporary enclosed sealed space  101 . 
         [0043]      FIG. 2  shows a connection panel  200  that is incorporated in the scrubbing loop and allows the charcoal scrubber to attach to the gas tight temporary enclosure  101 . Within the connection panel  200  there are inlet  201  and outlet ports  202  allowing the scrubber to remove the ClO 2  from the gas tight temporary enclosure  101 . In some embodiments the connection panel may have a electricity source port  203  with electricity cord  204  to have the option to power an electrical device within the gas tight temporary enclosure during the decontamination cycle. 
         [0044]      FIG. 3A  shows a ClO 2  charcoal scrubber  300  including, conduit  302  and fitting  305  and  306  for attaching to the connection panel  200  and the scrubber. ClO 2  charcoal scrubber  300  includes an inlet screen  307   b,  outlet screen  307   a  with associated conduit  302 , and fittings  305  attaching conduit  302  wherein ClO 2  is removed from the device  100  or temporary enclosed sealed space  101 . The ClO 2  charcoal scrubber  300  includes a blower  303  and coupling  304  to attach to the charcoal scrubber  300 , with associated conduit  302  to draw the ClO 2  gas into the charcoal bed  301  and exhausting out the top creating a open scrubbing path. 
         [0045]      FIG. 3B  shows a ClO, charcoal scrubber  300  including, conduit  302  and fitting  305  and  306  for attaching to the connection panel  200  and the scrubber. ClO 2  charcoal scrubber  300  includes an inlet screen  307   b,  outlet screen  307   a  with associated conduit  302 , and fittings  305  attaching conduit  302  wherein ClO, is removed from the device  100  or temporary enclosed sealed space  101 . The ClO 2  charcoal scrubber  300  includes a blower  303  and coupling  304  to attach to the charcoal scrubber  300 , with associated conduit  302  to draw the ClO 2  gas into the charcoal bed  301 . In some embodiments the blower may include a coupling  308  allowing conduit  302  to attach with coupling  302  to the blower to create a closed scrubbing path or to attach to a building exhaust/HVAC exhaust system. 
         [0046]      FIG. 4  shows the CD Generation and neutralization equipment and chemicals.  FIG. 4  includes the CD generating reservoir  400 , CD precursor A  401 , CD precursor B  402 , neutralizing precursor N mixing bottle  403 , measuring cup  404 , porous splash guard  405  and neutralizing precursor N  406 , 
         [0047]      FIG. 5  is a high level flow chart of a process for performing a decontamination of a Class II Type A1, A2, B1, and B2 Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC)  101 . When the system of  FIGS. 1A ,  1 B,  1 C and  1 D is applied to other devices, slight modifications on attachment, sealing and circulation are applied, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill. For example, in other embodiments, the device to be decontaminated is not a BSC, and a tent material is placed around the device, and sealed to appropriate connection panels described herein, using a pressure sensitive adhesive tape (e.g., duct tape). The gas conduit connections to the ports of the connection panels can be made in the same manner as connecting the conduit to the BSC. In addition, a power cord  204  for the running an electrical device can be passed through an opening or fitting  203  in the connection panel  200  and a gas-tight seal formed around the cord. 
         [0048]    Referring again to  FIG. 5 , at step  5000 , prior to using the system, the user reviews the manual and safety procedures. 
         [0049]    At step  5001 , the BSC  101  is prepared. Details of this step are discussed below with reference to  FIG. 6 . 
         [0050]    At step  5002 , the exhaust/aeration preparations are performed. Details of this step are discussed below with reference to  FIG. 7 . 
         [0051]    At step  5003 , the intake preparations are performed. Details of this step are discussed below with reference to  FIG. 8 . 
         [0052]    At step  5004 , the overall volume of BSC  101  is determined and annotated. 
         [0053]    At step  5005 , the amount of CD precursor is determined and noted. Details of this step are discussed below with reference to  FIG. 9 . 
         [0054]    At step  5006 , the Chem CD  8833  system is prepared. Details of this step are discussed below with reference to  FIG. 10 . 
         [0055]    At step  5007 , the decontamination cycle is performed. Details of this step are discussed below with reference to  FIG. 11 . 
         [0056]    At step  5008 , the scrubbing cycle is performed. Details of this step are discussed below with reference to  FIG. 12 . 
         [0057]    At step  5009 , the neutralization step is performed. Details of this step are discussed below with reference to  FIG. 13 . 
         [0058]    At step  5010 , the decontamination is complete, and a post-decontamination procedure is performed. Details of this step are discussed below with reference to  FIG. 14 . 
         [0059]    Referring to  FIG. 6 , the BSC Preparation is shown. 
         [0060]    At step  6000 , the user verifies that only items to be decontaminated are within the BSC. 
         [0061]    At step  6001 , the user verifies that all items remaining in the BSC are stacked in a way that the humidity and ClO 2  gas can contact all surfaces, and no items lay flat or obstructed. If items require power, they are plugged into the BSC&#39;s receptacle and tested for operation ensuring the current draw does not exceed the rated capacity of the BSC&#39;s receptacle(s). The BSC may be prepped or moved such that appropriate sealing will be possible (e.g., in animal areas where the BSC units are on casters). 
         [0062]    At step  6002 , the user places the CD generation reservoir into the BSC or temporary gas tight enclosure. 
         [0063]    At step  6003 , the user connects the charcoal scrubber to the BSC or temporary gas tight enclosure. 
         [0064]    At step  6004 , a determination is made whether a biological indicator (BI) was requested. 
         [0065]    At step  6005 , if requested, the user can optionally affix at least one biological indicator (BI) within the BSC(s) at a pre-determined location(s). If using a BI with a Tyvek envelope, the user pushes a hanger (e.g., an opened paperclip or other hanger) through one end of the Tyvek envelope, and then attaches the hanger to an internal surface of the BSC. If the hanger cannot be directly hung, the surface is decontaminated with the appropriate disinfectant or sterilant, ensuring proper contact time prior to affixing the tape. 
         [0066]      FIG. 7  shows the exhaust preparation step. Exhaust preparation of various classifications use different exhaust sealing configurations, as follows: 
         [0067]    At step  7000 , steps  7001 - 7003  are performed for Class I, Class II Type A1, A2 when the air through the BSC is exhausted back into the space. 
         [0068]    At step  7001 , the user removes the exhaust HEPA filter protective screen and places it aside. 
         [0069]    At step  7002 , the user uses isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or other cleaning solvents to clean and remove dust or debris from the top exhaust filter housing. 
         [0070]    At step  7003 , the user seals the exhaust HEPA filter using a return sealing panel (which may be configured with male cam and groove coupling) using duct tape or other sealing material. 
         [0071]    At step  7004 , steps  7005 - 7006  are performed for Class I, Class II Type A2 (when exhausted via thimble or canopy). 
         [0072]    At step  7005 , the user removes the thimble or canopy. Thimble or canopy connections are spelled out in the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF International) Standard No. 49 for Class II (Laminar Flow) Biohazard Cabinetry, for connecting BSC to exhaust systems. This type of connection provides an air gap as to compensate for room pressurization changes. 
         [0073]    Alternatively, at step  7006 , the user closes or seals the sealable type thimbles, canopies, and/or at step  626 , the user closes the exhaust gas tight damper and follows the B1 or B2 procedure dependant on the sealing, and or, damper location relative to the exhaust HEPA filter. The user ensures that this is indeed a gas tight damper with no by-pass leakage. The user temporarily by-passes any low flow alarms. 
         [0074]    At step  7007 , steps  7008 - 7009  are performed for a Class I, Class II Type B1, B2 BSC. 
         [0075]    At step  7008 , the user fully closes the exhaust ductwork gas tight decontamination exhaust damper. 
         [0076]    At step  7009 , the user leaves the back draft, EVAV or other balancing damper(s) in their original position. 
         [0077]    At step  7010  steps  7011  are used for isolators or class III BSC&#39;s. 
         [0078]    At step  7011 , the user closes the exhaust ductwork valve. 
         [0079]      FIG. 8  is a flow chart showing intake preparation of classifications. Steps  8000 - 8003  are performed for a Class I, Class II Type A1, A2, or B1 BSC. Steps  8004 - 8005  are performed for Isolators and Class II Type B2 BSC. 
         [0080]    At step  8000 , preparation starts for a Class I, Class II Type A1, A2, or B1 BSC. 
         [0081]    At step  8001 , the user starts to seal the front access opening using the supply connection panel using duct tape or other sealing materials. 
         [0082]    At step  8002 , the user seals the top supply HEPA intake opening. 
         [0083]    At step  8003 , the user clamps the B2 supply recirculation duct line to the connection panel. 
         [0084]    At step  8004 , preparation starts for a isolator or a Class II BSC. 
         [0085]    At step  8005 , the user closes the air supply valve. 
         [0086]      FIG. 9  shows the process by which the user determines and annotates the amount of ClO, generating chemicals need to be used for the decontamination. 
         [0087]    The user multiplies the BSC volume by 0.13 g/ft 3  (4.7, g/ m 3 ) to determine the mass of ClO 2  required to be generated. Then, the user multiplies the ClO 2  mass by the unit mass of the supplied chemical. The following table determines the amount of chemical (e.g., sodium chlorite) required. Need 0.13 g CD/ft 3  of space being decontaminated. For example: a 6 foot BSC is 75 ft 3 .times.0.13=9.75 CD required. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE-US-00001 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 TABLE 1 Chlorine Dioxide Minimum Maximum BSC Size Generating 
               
               
                 Table 1 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Maximum 
                 BSC Size 
                 Chlorine Dioxide 
               
               
                 Volume - ft 3  (m 3 ) 
                 Width - ft (m) 
                 Generating Chemical (g) 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 50 
                 3-4 ft (0.91-1.22) 
                 6.5  
               
               
                 75 
                 5-6 ft (1.52-1.83) 
                 9.75 
               
               
                 Custom 
                 Custom 
                 (Volume ft 3 ) × (0.13 g/ft 3 ) 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0088]      FIG. 10  shows the Chem CD System Preparation. 
         [0089]    At step  10 , 000 , the user dons safety glasses, lab coat, gloves and an appropriate respirator. 
         [0090]    At step  10 , 001 , the user places the CD generation reservoir in the center of the enclosure or BSC to be decontaminated. 
         [0091]    At step  10 , 002 , the user obtains Chem CD neutralizer precursor N  406  and adds IL of water to mixing bottle  403  in preparation for neutralization at the end of the decontamination cycle. 
         [0092]    At step  10 , 003 , the user obtains Chem CD precursor A  401  and Chem CD precursor B  402  in preparation for starting the CD generation cycle. 
         [0093]    At step  10 , 004 , the user obtains 250 ml of water  407  using the measuring cup  404 . 
         [0094]      FIG. 11  shows the decontamination Cycle. Before beginning the cycle, the user verifies that a negative pressure secondary containment system is incorporated within the decontamination area‘ 3 or that the BSC is located within an un-recirculated space with a pressure negative relative to all bordering areas, labs and hallways, etc. 
         [0095]    At step  11 , 000 , the user adds the Chem CD precursor A  401  to the CD generation source/reservoir  400 . 
         [0096]    At step  11 , 001 , the user adds 250 ml of water  407  using the measuring cup  404 . 
         [0097]    At step  11 , 002 , the user spreads Chem CD precursor B  402  into Chem CD precursor A  401  and 250 ml of water  407  in the CD generation source/reservoir  400 . 
         [0098]    At step  11 , 003 , the user will quickly seal the BSC or temporary gas tight enclosure  101  to be decontaminated. 
         [0099]    At step  11 , 004 , the user activates the recirculation blower if applicable. 
         [0100]    At step  11 , 005 , the user lets the mixture generate ClO 2  gas and remain in the chamber until the exposure time has elapsed or is complete. 
         [0101]      FIG. 12  is a flow chart of the Scrubbing Cycle 
         [0102]    At step  12 , 000 , the user determines that the ClO 2  gas contact cycle is complete. 
         [0103]    At step  12 , 001 , the user turns on the scrubber  300  or building exhaust/HVAC exhaust system  310 . 
         [0104]    At step  12 , 002 , the user lets the scrubber  300  or building exhaust/HVAC exhaust  310  run until the concentration of ClO 2  gas is reduced to safe levels. 
         [0105]    At step  12 , 003 , the user slowly unseals the BSC  101  or temporary gas tight enclosure  101  in preparation for neutralization. 
         [0106]      FIG. 13  shows the neutralization procedure. 
         [0107]    At step  13 , 000 , the user makes sure to unseal the BSC  101  or temporary gas tight enclosure  101  just enough to add the neutralizing precursor N  406  after it has been mixed in IL of water using the mixing bottle  403 . 
         [0108]    At step  13 , 001 , the user adds the neutralizing precursor N  406  after it has been mixed in 1 L of water using the mixing bottle  403  to the CD generation source/reservoir containing the 250 ml of water  407 , CD precursor A  401  and CD precursor B  402 . 
         [0109]    At step  13 , 002 , once the solution has turned cloudy/white/clear then neutralization is complete (CAUTION: solution may be hot).. 
         [0110]      FIG. 14  shows the final procedure performed when Decontamination is Complete. 
         [0111]    At step  14 , 000 , the user monitors determines that the scrubbing cycle is complete.. 
         [0112]    At step  14 , 001 , the user disassembles removes the generation equipment and disposes of the neutralized solution. 
         [0113]    At step  14 , 002 , the user removes all connection materials (ex: tape, connection panel, etc.) and surface decontaminates if necessary. 
         [0114]    At step  14003 , the user returns all air flow systems back to original settings (ex: HVAC system). 
         [0115]    At step  14 , 004 , the user collects the BI(s) if used and sends them out for analysis. 
         [0116]    At step  14 , 005 , the final decontamination report will be filled out completely and the user will make sure the customer gets a copy. 
         [0117]    At step  14006 , the user will turn the BSC  101  or temporary gas tight enclosure  101  over for use. 
         [0118]    Many variations and options are may be included in various embodiments. 
         [0119]    In some embodiments, a gas tight connection panel connector is provided for the return of the scrubbed gas. Gas tight sealing duct ports of various diameters may be used for the return of the scrubbed gas 
         [0120]    In some embodiments, gas tight sealing duct caps of various diameters are provided for the return of the scrubbed gas. 
         [0121]    In some embodiments, the neutralization powder may be a proprietary mixture. 
         [0122]    In some embodiments, the charcoal scrubber box has an inlet incorporating a charcoal retention screen with a gas tight design. 
         [0123]    Preferably, the piping design incorporates the one blower, charcoal scrubber box, and provisions to attach the inlet and outlet lines all incorporated into one system. The blower is for the scrubbing or removal of the ClO 2  gas. 
         [0124]    The Chem CD  8833  allows one to provide complete decontamination services in less than  4  hours, including setup and tear down of Biological Safety Cabinets (BSC) or devices (e.g., Casework, Cabinets, HLF&#39;s or VLF&#39;s, Containment Devices, CFH&#39;s, Centrifuges, Refrigerators, Freezers, Washers, Water Baths, Shakers, Bio-reactors, Tanks, Ctrs, Computers, or any other lab or productions equipment). 
         [0125]    Other Items may be incorporated within the decontamination space, and can be placed within the BSC. 
         [0126]    Examples of BSC&#39;s which the Chem CD  8833  is compatible with, are all classes and type classifications. 
         [0127]    Some embodiments include a connection panel with a port to introduce a power cord to energize an electrical device within the device or space under decontamination. 
         [0128]    A gas tight connection panel may be included for “tenting method” or temporary spaces to contain the gas for the introduction of the decontaminating gas. Similarly, a gas tight sealing duct port of various diameters may be included for scrubbing the gas from a BSC (Type B2). 
         [0129]    Although the invention has been described in terms of exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Rather, the appended claims should be construed broadly, to include other variants and embodiments of the invention, which may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and range of equivalents of the invention.

Technology Classification (CPC): 8