A laboratory fume hood is referred to as the most common local exhaust ventilation system used in research labs. It is the primary method used to curb inhalation exposures to harmful chemicals and substances. If the fume hoods are used properly, they provide a certain degree of protection to the user.
Types of laboratory fume hoods
The primary types of laboratory fume hoods are listed below:
- Bench-top Fume Hood: It is a hood type that sits on the work surface approximately 40” above the floor. With this equipment, you will require a supporting base cabinet, a work surface, and an exhaust blower. This fume hood type will also need ductwork, and you should consider this aspect while calculating your installation costs.
- Floor-mounted Fume Hood: It is also termed a walk-in fume hood that is installed from the floor up. A floor-mounted fume hood is like a small room permitting you to work inside the space. It is an ideal choice when you are using oversized tools or equipment like drums, processing units, and robots while operating with toxic chemicals. These fume hoods vary in size depending on the requirements, but generally, take the shape of a small closet.
- Double-faced fume hood: It is the perfect choice for demonstrations. It comes with entrances on both sides and allows for a 3600 view. A double-faced fume hood may come as a portable unit or a typical bench-top or wall installation. They are frequently used in laboratories or classrooms where teaching demonstrations are very frequent.
- Portable Fume Hood: They are also referred to as recirculating range hoods. One primary characteristic of portable fume hoods is they are ductless, and they operate off a carbon filter system. Compared to other hoods, portable fume hoods are cheaper, easier to install, and use less energy. If you are concerned more about energy usage, these eco-friendly range hoods can make it to your list.
How do the laboratory fume hoods protect workers?
When used properly, laboratory fume hoods are one of the most reliable engineering controls in the research labs. They protect workers and lab technicians by:
- Contribute to laboratory ventilation as air passes through the hood.
- Remove vapors, gases, dust, and fumes generated within the hood through the laboratory exhaust system as air flows into the hood.
- Shield the worker with a sash that comprises aerosols and prevents injury from fires, splashes, or minor explosions that may occur within the fume hood.
As you can understand, a laboratory fume hood is something that protects researchers from harmful chemicals and substances while conducting an experiment. Choosing the right fume hood depends on several factors—what chemicals are you using, how big is your project, and the amount of money you are willing to spend on it.
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