Basic requirements of dunk tank settings and verification of the disinfection effect in high-level biosafety laboratories

Abstract This study presents the structure and application of dunk tanks in high-level biosafety laboratories. The test methods and sterilization effects of dunk tanks were evaluated by using Bacillus subtilis as indicator. Results showed that sterilization effects of dunk tanks could be achieved by immersing the goods in 0.5% sodium hypochlorite disinfectant solution for 30 min at room temperature. Neutralizer sodium thiosulfate had no effect on the growth of Bacillus subtilis, and thus would not affect the disinfection results of sodium hypochlorite. Furthermore, suggestions for safe operation of dunk tanks are also provided in this study.