how to use a fume hood

Fume hoods are designed to keep lab personnel safe when working with hazardous chemicals.

But no matter how well a hood is designed, it won’t be effective unless proper safety measures are taken.

BEFORE USING A FUME HOOD

Read the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and follow the safety precautions.

When working with hazardous material, make sure you know the potential safety hazards.

Familiarize yourself with the chemicals

Note the nearest exit, emergency eyewash, and fire extinguisher

Make sure the pathways to these areas are unobstructed.

Ensure the exhaust is operating properly

– Make sure the baffles aren't obstructed. – Make sure the airflow  monitor is working. If you suspect airflow changes ,  take a break to check  things out.

Place materials at least 6 inches  within the hood and lower the  sash to 18 inches.

Place materials at least 6 inches within the hood. Check that sashes  are in place. 

Vertical Rising Sashes

Horizontal Sliding Sashes

Assure sashes, baffles, and panels are in place

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In the case of spills or fires, users will be protected if they're wearing proper safety gear.

Wear appropriate protective gear

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SPLASH GOGGLES

GLOVES

CLOSE-TOED SHOES

FACE SHIELD

APRON

All procedures that include volatile materials should take place in a hood.

PROPERLY USING A FUME HOOD

In the case of an emergency, you’ll need to close the sash quickly.  - Only keep necessary chemicals in the hood - Place chemicals at least six in. inside the hood

Familiarize yourself with the chemicals

The sash works as a safety shield in the case of an explosion. The glass is designed to spider instead of shatter.

(from the work surface)

Keep the sash below 18 inches

Unless using a walk-in fume hood, your hands should be the only body part inside the hood. The sash acts as a barrier and is there for protection.

Keep your face outside of the hood

This will allow air to flow beneath it and enable the fume hood to do its job.

Place large equipment on blocks

Using fans near the hood opening may cause airflow disturbances, which will alter the effectiveness.

Do not disturb the airflow

Rapid movements can create turbulence, disrupting the flow of air into the hood and may result in exposure.

Likewise, walking near the hood opening or making quick motions may have a similar effect.

AFTER USING A FUME HOOD

It's necessary to have the fume hood open when working inside of it, but when not in use, keep it closed to conserve energy.

To avoid releasing hazardous materials into the laboratory, place materials in a closed container prior to removing them from the hood.

Shut the sash

Place hazardous materials in a closed container

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If you plan on using a fume hood, familiarize yourself with basic functions and emergency procedures. When hoods are used properly, they ensure that labs remain safe and effective workspaces.

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