BAMS and the Principles of Biofluorescent Particle Detection
The Portable BAMS is a biofluorescent particle counter (BFPC) designed to detect viable airborne contamination in real time. Unlike traditional methods that require microbial growth on agar plates, BAMS uses laser-induced fluorescence to detect biological particles instantly. Microorganisms contain naturally occurring fluorophores, such as NADH and riboflavin, which emit fluorescence when excited by ultraviolet light. By measuring both fluorescence and particle size, BAMS distinguishes viable biological particles from inert ones without requiring incubation or sample handling.

• Grade A requires continuous viable and non-viable monitoring during operations.
• Grade B requires continuous non-viable monitoring and routine viable sampling.
• Grades C and D require routine viable monitoring at a lower frequency, primarily for contamination trend analysis.

While continuous viable monitoring is not required in Grades B, C, or D, routine viable monitoring remains essential for maintaining environmental control. Traditionally, this has been performed using active air samplers and settle plates, but these methods have limitations in detection speed, efficiency, and accuracy that can be improved upon by using an advanced technology such as the Portable BAMS.

BAMS vs. Traditional Culture-Based Methods
Traditional viable monitoring methods, such as active air samplers (AAS) and settle plates, have been widely used in cleanrooms but come with significant limitations:

Key Advantages of BAMS

• Faster Response: Detects viable contamination in real time, eliminating 2-7 day delays from culture-based methods.
• Greater Coverage: Can be used at multiple sampling points very easily, improving contamination detection.
• Lower Cost & Waste: No need for agar plates or consumables, reducing environmental impact.
• More Efficient Workflow: Requires no sample handling, incubation, or manual documentation.

A Smarter Approach to Routine Monitoring
For cleanroom environments requiring routine environmental monitoring, the Portable BAMS provides a more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional culture-based monitoring. With real-time detection, no consumables, and the ability to be used across multiple sampling locations, it enhances contamination control programs while reducing costs, waste, and delays in microbial response.