What is the minimum ISO classification necessary for a Primary Engineering Control (PEC)?

The minimum ISO classification necessary for a Primary Engineering Control (PEC) is ISO Class 5. This classification is crucial because ISO Class 5 environments have specific air cleanliness criteria that limit the number of particles in the air to ensure the safety and efficacy of sterile compounding. In this environment, the maximum allowable particle count is 3,520 per cubic meter for particles larger than 0.5 micrometers, which helps minimize the risk of contamination during the compounding process.

This classification is vital in maintaining sterility and is essential for environments where sterile preparations are made, such as those involving hazardous drugs or injectable medications. Higher classifications, such as ISO Class 6, 7, or 8, would not meet the stringent requirements necessary for the safe preparation of sterile products, thus making ISO Class 5 the standard benchmark for PECs in compounding facilities.