The main instigator of the ISO 10648-2:1994 standard is Jacomex, because we believe that containment systems must be tested and qualified. It is the only internationally recognized standard. It classifies containments according to their tightness.

Alongside the French nuclear authorities, Jacomex has actively participated in the development of a French standard for tightness (Afnor M62200) since the 1970s. It also manufactured a device under CEA license, Oxyfuit. With this device, it is possible to test containment in compliance with the standard, following the method known as “oxygen rise”.

Tests for the Classification of Containment Enclosures

In the late 1980s, the company had to work hard to develop the ISO 10648-2:1994 standard in order to maintain rigor, especially class 1, compared to the less demanding German standard DIN 25412. Today, Jacomex containment systems are virtually Class 1.

Once the containment box is manufactured, tests can be performed at different stages. These tests give the glove boxes a classification, depending on their tightness:

  • Factory leakage test: this test is performed at the end of the manufacturing and assembly of the glove boxes,
  • Factory acceptance test (FAT): this test is carried out in the presence of the user department,
  • Leak test on site at the reception of the equipment (SAT): the test is carried out in the presence of the user service.

In the last two steps, the tests must be done in compliance with local regulations and standards.

What is the Scope of ISO 10648-2:1994 Standard?

The ISO 10648-2:1994 standard applies to glove boxes used to produce and handle

  • Toxic and/or radioactive products that need to be handled within a sealed enclosure to protect the environment and/or personnel.
  • Sensitive products that must be handled in a special atmosphere.

The ISO 10648-2:1994 standard defines three test methods, their respective procedures and describes the test conditions that must be met. It also categorizes four classes of glovebox leakage according to their hourly leakage rate and is intended for use by manufacturers, suppliers, users and competent authorities.

As a reminder, a glove box or containment system is specifically designed to prevent the leakage of products handled in a particular atmosphere to the outside atmosphere, or to prevent the components of the outside atmosphere from entering the inside atmosphere, or both.