By Grainger Editorial Staff 2/4/20
The fumes chemicals emit can quickly make the air unbreathable. A fume hood helps prevent exposure to toxic vapors so people can stay safe when working with chemicals.
A fume hood is a piece of laboratory equipment designed to minimize a person's exposure to hazardous chemicals. The fume hood draws away harmful vapors so lab employees can work with chemicals without the risk of accidental exposure. The air is extracted from the fume hood and filtered to remove dangerous vapors, and then either exhausted outside of the building or recirculated back into the lab.
The fume hood works by using a sash (a window that opens or closes to protect the user) to contain the vapor and keep it away from the user’s face or to prevent it from drifting out into the rest of the laboratory. Blowers draw in air from the room, through a filter or number of filters within the fume hood and towards an exhaust area.
According to Labconco, to safely work in a fume hood, keep all work at least six inches away from the plane of the sash. This will ensure fumes are pulled away from the user. Also, make sure the hood sash remains closed as much as possible and keep the hood slots and baffles free of any obstructions by containers or equipment. Never place your head inside the fume hood when working with chemicals.
The airflow will differ depending on the type of hood you use. For a constant air volume (CAV) hood, the fan has only one speed, providing a stable and continuous airflow. A variable air volume (VAV) hood allows users to adjust the velocity of the exhaust for added versatility, while reduced air volume (RAV) hoods offer lower airflow performance, making them ideal for working with less harmful compounds.
Every lab is unique. That’s why fume hoods come in a wide variety of sizes and functionalities so that you can find one that fits your exact needs. When comparing fume hoods, here are some of the different types to consider:
When selecting a fume hood, consider the volumes and types of chemicals you most often work with and how often you work with them, along with the size of the equipment you need to use in your work. This can help you determine the size and capabilities you’ll need in a fume hood to ensure it’s the right fit for both your workspace and your people. Now that you know more about how a fume hood works, you can pick one for your facility.
The information contained in this article is intended for general information purposes only and is based on information available as of the initial date of publication. No representation is made that the information or references are complete or remain current. This article is not a substitute for review of current applicable government regulations, industry standards, or other standards specific to your business and/or activities and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the applicable standards or consult with an attorney.