Laboratories pose significant risks, especially when dealing with chemicals and hazardous materials. A well-maintained fume hood plays a vital role in protecting workers from these dangers. Fume hoods safely vent harmful fumes and vapors, but this equipment can only perform its job if used properly.
To comply with OSHA fume hood requirements and to safeguard health, workers must adhere to specific safety practices. In this article, we will explore the best practices for fume hood safety, ensuring both efficient and secure operations in any lab environment.
Understand the Purpose of Your Fume Hood
Before using any lab fume hood, it is important to understand its purpose and function. A fume hood is designed to capture and remove hazardous chemical vapors, fumes, and gases from the air, protecting workers from exposure. The fume hood uses a blower system, either integral or ducted, to vent these contaminants outside or, in some cases, filter and recirculate the air. The air must flow properly to maintain a safe working environment.
It is also important to know the specific requirements of your fume hood, such as face velocity and sash height, based on the chemicals and processes used. These requirements are often outlined in OSHA fume hood requirements.
Always Keep the Sash Closed When Not in Use
One of the simplest yet most effective safety practices is keeping the sash of the fume hood closed when not actively in use. The sash is the transparent window or door that can be raised or lowered to access the inside of the fume hood. When closed, the sash prevents hazardous vapors from escaping into the laboratory and protects the user from potential splashes or spills.
When working in the fume hood, open the sash just enough to allow you to work efficiently while keeping the opening as small as possible. Lowering the sash also helps reduce the energy needed to ventilate the hood, lowering energy costs over time.
Do Not Block the Airfoil
The airfoil at the base of the fume hood is a critical component of its ventilation system. Blocking or placing equipment on the airfoil can disrupt airflow, leading to reduced effectiveness in containing harmful vapors. The airfoil is designed to help direct airflow into the fume hood, keeping contaminants away from the user.
To maintain optimal performance, place materials and equipment inside the fume hood at least six inches behind the airfoil and avoid obstructing it. This practice ensures that the air is drawn properly and that the hood functions as intended.
Keep Your Fume Hood Clean
A clean fume hood is an effective fume hood. Regularly cleaning the interior and exterior of the hood is necessary to remove any chemical residue or debris that may accumulate during experiments. This not only helps maintain proper airflow but also reduces the risk of chemical contamination.
For cleaning, use appropriate cleaning agents that are safe for the materials inside the fume hood. Avoid using abrasive materials that could damage the surface. When cleaning, be sure to wear protective gloves and goggles to avoid direct contact with harmful chemicals.
Always Monitor Face Velocity
Face velocity is the rate at which air flows into a fume hood, typically measured in feet per minute (fpm). Maintaining the proper face velocity is essential for the fume hood to function correctly. If the velocity is too low, harmful fumes may not be effectively captured. If it is too high, it could cause unwanted turbulence, which might draw contaminants into the lab.
Most fume hoods are equipped with a monitoring system to measure face velocity. Regular testing is important to ensure that the fume hood meets the required velocity specified by the manufacturer. An annual test is recommended to verify the airflow is still within safe limits.
Do Not Store Chemicals in the Fume Hood
It can be tempting to store chemicals and materials inside the fume hood, but this is a dangerous practice. A fume hood should only be used for active experiments. Storing chemicals in the hood can obstruct airflow and create hazards in the event of a spill or leak.
Instead, store chemicals in appropriate laboratory cabinets or storage units designed for safe chemical containment. PSA Laboratory Furniture offers a wide range of laboratory cabinets designed to meet the safety and storage needs of your laboratory.
Test the Hood Regularly
Testing the fume hood’s performance on a regular basis is an important safety practice. Testing helps ensure that the airflow is within the required parameters and that the hood is functioning properly. Face velocity should be measured, and the sash operation should be checked to make sure it is moving smoothly and providing the proper seal when closed.
Regular testing also includes checking for leaks, checking filters (if applicable), and inspecting the blower system. Keeping track of test results over time can also help track performance and highlight any necessary upgrades or adjustments.
Never Rely on a Fume Hood Alone for Protection
While fume hoods play a vital role in protecting laboratory workers, they are not a substitute for other safety equipment. Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, goggles, and lab coats, when working in the lab. Fume hoods are designed to limit exposure to airborne chemicals, but they do not provide full protection from hazardous spills, splashes, or direct contact with harmful substances.
Make sure your laboratory follows all safety protocols, and always keep emergency equipment, such as eyewash stations and safety showers, nearby. PSA Laboratory Furniture also offers metal lab furniture that can be customized for various laboratory needs, including emergency equipment storage.
Follow Proper Waste Disposal Procedures
After completing an experiment, it is important to dispose of hazardous chemicals and materials according to established waste disposal procedures. Never pour chemicals into the sink or discard them improperly. Fume hoods are not designed for waste disposal and using them for this purpose can lead to contamination.
Consult your laboratory’s safety officer for proper waste disposal guidelines. By adhering to these procedures, you will maintain a clean and safe working environment.
At PSA Laboratory Furniture, we understand the importance of safe and functional lab equipment. We offer high-quality fume hoods and laboratory cabinets tailored to meet your specific needs.
Our experts also provide free consultations and design services, helping you create an efficient and safe lab space. Reach out to us today for assistance in maintaining a safe laboratory environment.