Fume hoods are the most important safety device in a laboratory. They allow laboratory personnel to conduct procedures involving hazardous materials in a safe environment.
While a fume hood will endure normal wear and tear over time, you should know what to look for when it’s time to upgrade.
When it fails a safety check
A fume hood’s primary function is to keep people safe. An annual safety test should be completed on every fume hood in your laboratory to ensure the safety of personnel. If the fume hood fails a safety check or doesn’t pass a filtration efficiency test, there is something wrong and it’s time to look at a new hood.
When its technology is out of date
The most obvious indicator that it’s time for a new fume hood is age. Old fume hoods have older technology and put laboratory employees at greater risk. Additionally, they are costlier to maintain due to less efficient filtration systems compared to modern hoods.
With advances in technology, fume hood efficiency is always improving. A new fume hood will operate and reduce exposure to chemicals better than an older model. Newer fume hoods have filtration technology that is capable of lasting longer and handling more chemicals, so they are safer to operate.
When it begins to degrade
Discoloration of materials, permanent fogging on the sash, and loud noises coming from the internal fan are all common signs that a fume hood is reaching the end of its life expectancy. Yes, a fume hood will continue to function as it degrades, but time is drawing near for a replacement.
When your lab changes
If your laboratory has expanded since you purchased your existing fume hood, it may be time to upgrade. Additional staff may mean more demand and use required of the fume hood. A newer, more efficient fume hood will be able to accommodate a larger volume of work.
If you’re ready to upgrade your current fume hood, browse our selection of fume hoods or contact Kyle at (815) 670-6400.