FUME HOOD

The primary function of a

fume hood is to provide a
controlled environment for
working with hazardous
materials in a laboratory
setting. Here are the key
functions of a fume hood:

By Jay-Ar Durante
 Operation, function, and Calibration of a Fume hood:
A fume hood is a safety device designed to protect laboratory workers from exposure to
harmful fumes, vapors, and dust generated during experiments or procedures. It
consists of a ventilated enclosure with a movable sash or cover that allows the user to
access the interior while maintaining a barrier against hazardous substances.

Containment: The primary function of a fume hood is to contain and control hazardous
substances within the enclosure. It prevents the escape of fumes and protects the user
and the laboratory environment.

Ventilation: Fume hoods are equipped with a ventilation system that pulls air from the
laboratory into the hood, captures contaminants, and then exhausts the air outside or
through a filtration system.

Protection: Fume hoods provide a physical barrier between the user and potentially
harmful materials, ensuring that the user is not directly exposed to hazardous
substances.

Workspace: The interior of the fume hood serves as a workspace for various laboratory
activities, such as chemical reactions, sample preparations, or experiments involving
volatile substances.

Start up the Fume hood:

Put on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Before starting the fume hood, ensure you are wearing the appropriate PPE, such as
gloves and safety goggles.
Check the Area:
Verify that the immediate area around the fume hood is clear of obstructions, and there
are no materials blocking the airflow.
Inspection:
Inspect the fume hood for any visible damage or signs of wear. Check the sash, seals,
and glass for any cracks or issues.
Power On:
Turn on the power to the fume hood. This may involve activating the main power switch
located on or near the fume hood.
Ventilation System:
Activate the fume hood's ventilation system. This may be controlled by a separate
switch or integrated into the power control.
Monitor Indicators:
Check any visual indicators or alarms on the fume hood. Some hoods have indicators for
proper airflow or alarm systems for containment breaches.
Sash Adjustment:
If the fume hood has a movable sash or cover, adjust it to the appropriate height for your
work. Ensure that the sash is fully closed when not in use.
 Airflow Verification:
Use an anemometer to measure and verify the face velocity, which is the speed of air
entering the fume hood. Ensure it falls within the recommended range specified by the
manufacturer.
Smoke Test:
Perform a smoke test to visualize the airflow patterns within the fume hood. This helps
identify any turbulence or areas where contaminants may escape.
Functional Test:
Test the functionality of any additional features, such as alarms, lighting, or airflow
controls.
Work Inside the Fume Hood:
Once you have verified that the fume hood is operating correctly, you can begin your
work inside the hood. Ensure that you follow proper laboratory procedures and safety
guidelines.
Emergency Procedures:
Familiarize yourself with emergency shutdown procedures and the location of
emergency equipment, such as the emergency shut-off switch or emergency shower.
Regular Checks:
Incorporate regular checks of the fume hood into your laboratory routine. This includes
visual inspections, monitoring airflow, and addressing any issues promptly.

Loading Material and Equipment:

Wear PPE: Close Sash When Not in Use:

Gloves, safety goggles, lab coat. Maintain proper containment.
Prepare Outside Hood: Secure Containers:
Assemble materials outside the fume Ensure stability to prevent spills.
hood. Monitor Airflow:
Check Workspace: Check face velocity and visual
Ensure the fume hood is clean and indicators.
clutter-free. Follow Lab Procedures:
Open Sash: Adhere to specific material handling
If applicable, open the sash to the guidelines.
desired height. Refer to MSDS for hazardous
Load Materials Carefully: substances.
Place materials one at a time to avoid Emergency Preparedness:
spills. Know the location of emergency
Use trays or secondary containers. equipment.
Avoid Overcrowding: Familiarize with emergency procedures.
Leave space for proper airflow. Close Sash After Use:
Keep materials towards the back. Minimize fume release by closing the
sash.
Techniques in operating fume hood:
PPE Compliance: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
Materials Preparation: Organize materials outside the hood to minimize open time.
Sash Management: Adjust the sash for proper containment and efficient work.
Loading Procedures: Load materials carefully, avoiding overcrowding for optimal
containment.
Minimize Exposure: Limit the time the hood is open to reduce exposure to
hazardous substances.
Secure Containers: Ensure stable positioning of containers to prevent spills.
Regular Monitoring: Monitor face velocity and visual indicators to ensure proper
airflow.
Emergency Protocols: Be familiar with shutdown procedures and emergency
equipment locations.
Cleaning and Decontamination: Follow protocols for regular cleaning and
decontamination.
Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of work conducted in the fume hood.
Use of Hazardous Materials: Adhere to safety guidelines when working with
hazardous substances.

Unloading materials and equipment in fume hood:

Wear PPE: Put on gloves and safety goggles before unloading materials.
Prepare Outside Hood: Organize removal outside to minimize open time.
Close the Sash: Ensure the fume hood sash is closed before starting the unloading
process.
Secure Containers: Check that containers are stable to prevent spills during removal.
Remove Equipment: Take out any equipment or apparatus first, handling them with
care.
Check for Spills: Inspect the fume hood for spills and clean up following laboratory
procedures.
Unload Chemicals: Carefully remove chemical containers one at a time, ensuring
proper sealing to prevent spillage.

Calibration of a Fume Hood:

Calibration of a fume hood also includes consulting the manufacturer's guidelines,
checking for uniform airflow patterns through a smoke test, inspecting and replacing
damaged seals or gaskets, verifying the proper functioning of alarm systems, adhering
to filter replacement schedules, and engaging qualified professionals for periodic
certification to ensure the fume hood operates safely and effectively. Regular
maintenance, including checking for loose components and inspecting the sash
mechanism, is crucial for the continued reliability of the fume hood.