STS-222's mission was to deliver the main module for the Canadian made Sensitive Materials Laboratory (SML). The SML is designed to host experiments that require clean-room conditions greater then that of the main section of the station, or otherwise need separation from the station due to chemical or biological hazards. Astronauts working in this module first enter a preparatory clean-room that was installed on STS-221, and change into an air-tight suit that is attached to static line and oxygen hose. Due to potential use of volatile chemicals and materials, the atmosphere inside the module is permanently separated from the station, and incase of fire or explosive danger, can be safely decompressed without danger to any suited astronauts working inside the lab.