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Grossing Station in Pathology: A Comprehensive Technical Overview

Created on 2025.09.15

Abstract

A grossing station, also known as a pathology dissection table or biological safety cabinet for gross examination, is a critical workstation in histopathology laboratories. It provides a controlled, safe environment for macroscopic examination, dissection, and sampling of surgical specimens, ensuring both personnel protection and specimen integrity through advanced ventilation and filtration systems.
grossing station

I. Definition and Overview

Grossing stations are engineered workstations designed for the safe handling and examination of surgical specimens. They combine features of biological safety cabinets with an ergonomic workspace to protect staff from biohazards while preventing specimen contamination.
Key terminology:
  • Downflow Velocity
  • Inflow Velocity
  • HEPA Filter
  • ULPA Filter
  • Face Velocity

II. Working Principle

Grossing stations rely on laminar airflow and negative pressure containment:
  1. Inflow Air Barrier: Ambient room air is drawn through the front grille at 0.4–0.6 m/s, creating a barrier to prevent contaminants from escaping.
  2. Downflow Capture: Contaminated air is pulled downward through the perforated work surface.
  3. Filtration & Exhaust:
This system effectively captures biohazard aerosols and volatile chemicals generated during specimen dissection.

III. Primary Functions and Roles

  • Personnel Protection: Shields pathologists and technicians from biohazardous aerosols, formaldehyde, and other volatile chemicals.
  • Specimen Protection: Prevents cross-contamination between specimens during dissection and sampling.
  • Ergonomic Workspace: Integrated workspace with adjustable height, built-in lighting, and tool access.
  • Environmental Protection: Properly filters hazardous vapors and particles before exhaust or recirculation.

IV. Structural Characteristics and Materials

  • Work Surface: 316-grade stainless steel, electropolished, non-porous, corrosion-resistant, and easy to disinfect.
  • Cabinet Body: Powder-coated carbon steel or stainless steel for durability and chemical resistance.
  • Splash Guard: Clear, shatter-resistant polycarbonate or acrylic.
  • Filters: HEPA filters housed in sealed compartments to prevent leakage.
  • Integrated Components: Cold-light sources, sinks with hot/cold water, air/water vacuum aspirators, electrical outlets.

V. Classification and Technical Parameters

Feature
Standard Models
Larger Models
Internal Work Area
48" x 24"
Customizable
External Dimensions
60"W x 36"D x 48"H
72"W x 48"D x 60"H
Airflow Volume
700–900 CFM
1000–1300 CFM
Inflow Velocity
0.50 ± 0.05 m/s
0.50 ± 0.05 m/s
Downflow Velocity
0.25–0.35 m/s
0.25–0.35 m/s
Filtration
HEPA 99.99%
HEPA 99.99%
Motor Power
1.0–1.5 HP
1.5–2.5 HP
Noise Level
<65–68 dBA>
<65–68 dBA>
Electrical
115V, 15A
208V/240V, 20A

VI. Typical Applications

  • Hospital pathology laboratories
  • Reference and diagnostic laboratories
  • Academic medical centers (clinical and research)
  • Forensic laboratories and medical examiners
  • Veterinary diagnostic laboratories
  • Pharmaceutical research and drug development

VII. Installation and Usage Considerations

  • Compliance with GMP, ISO 14644, NSF/ANSI 49, CDC/NIOSH standards.
  • Avoid high-traffic areas to minimize turbulence.
  • Maintain 6–12" clearance from walls and obstacles for airflow and maintenance access.
  • Stable, level flooring to prevent vibration affecting scales or filters.
  • Ducted models require properly sized, sealed exhaust with downstream fan for negative pressure.
  • Dedicated electrical circuits and grounded plumbing for sinks handling formalin/biological waste.
  • Performance certification by qualified technicians after installation or relocation.

VIII. Maintenance and Servicing Recommendations

Daily: Wipe all surfaces with mild detergent followed by disinfectant (e.g., 70% ethanol).
Weekly/Monthly: Inspect and clean/replace pre-filters, check perforated work surfaces, calibrate integrated scales, inspect UV lamps.
Bi-Annual/Annual: Certification by qualified technician, HEPA integrity testing, smoke pattern testing, replace HEPA filters every 5–7 years or as needed.
Documentation: Maintain detailed logs for all maintenance, repairs, and certifications to ensure traceability and compliance with CAP/JC accreditation standards.
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