Air Handling Unit Operation During Embryo Cryopreservation in IVF Laboratories
Yes, the AHU should remain operational continuously in IVF laboratories, even during embryo cryopreservation periods, to maintain consistent air quality standards that are critical for optimal outcomes. 1
Rationale for Continuous AHU Operation
The ESHRE guidelines for good practice in IVF laboratories emphasize that laboratory safety and quality management must be maintained at all times, which includes environmental controls. 1 While the guidelines do not explicitly address AHU operation during cryopreservation specifically, the framework for laboratory organization requires consistent environmental conditions as part of quality management systems. 1
Air quality in the embryology laboratory is considered critical for high IVF success rates, and maintaining stable ambient air conditions forms the foundation for a supportive culture environment. 2 The role of volatile organic compounds (VOC) and particulate matter necessitates continuous air filtration and handling, as these contaminants can compromise embryo viability even when embryos are in cryostorage. 2
Key Considerations for Laboratory Air Quality
Continuous environmental stability is essential because IVF laboratories serve as epicenters of assisted reproductive technology, particularly with the shift toward blastocyst culture, trophectoderm biopsy for preimplantation genetic testing, and extended embryo culture periods. 2
Chemical air filtration is as important as particulate control, yet many facilities focus primarily on industrial cleanroom particulate standards without adequate attention to VOC removal. 2 The AHU provides both functions when properly configured.
Temperature and humidity control provided by the AHU prevents condensation and maintains optimal storage conditions for cryopreserved materials, which is part of the laboratory safety requirements outlined in quality management protocols. 1
Practical Implementation
The AHU should operate 24/7 with appropriate maintenance schedules that do not compromise air quality during service intervals. 1, 2
Air quality monitoring should be continuous, not just during active embryo manipulation, as environmental fluctuations can affect both fresh procedures and stored materials. 2
Emergency backup systems should be in place as part of the laboratory's emergency plan, ensuring that power failures or equipment malfunctions do not compromise the controlled environment. 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Do not shut down the AHU during "off hours" or when no active procedures are scheduled, as this creates environmental instability and allows accumulation of contaminants that can affect subsequent procedures and potentially compromise cryostorage integrity. 2
Avoid relying solely on particulate filtration standards without addressing chemical air quality through VOC filtration, as this represents an incomplete approach to laboratory air quality management. 2
Do not assume that cryopreserved embryos are immune to environmental factors - while frozen, the storage environment still requires controlled conditions to prevent equipment malfunction and maintain optimal long-term storage conditions. 1, 3