A biological isolation chamber (BIC) is a portable, sealed unit with a negative pressure system and HEPA filters, designed to safely contain and transport highly infectious patients or hazardous biological materials, preventing pathogen spread to the environment or staff by filtering contaminated air and maintaining lower internal pressure.

It acts like a mobile, high-tech containment bubble, often featuring glove ports for access and a structure that fits over stretchers for easy movement in emergency or clinical settings, crucial during outbreaks like COVID-19.

Applications:

• Inpatient Transport: Used in hospitals, emergency centres, and infectious disease clinics to move patients between departments or facilities
• Public Health Protection: Employed at airports, docks, and stations to isolate individuals suspected of carrying deadly respiratory viruses like SARS or COVID-19.
• Research: Smaller versions exist for research purposes, such as the XIC-3 Animal Isolation Chamber, which isolates anesthetized mice or rats.