Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2021-10-18 Origin: Site
The level of protection provided by a fume hood is affected by the manner in which it is used. No fume hood, however well designed, can provide adequate containment unless good laboratory practices are used.
The following work practices are to be followed when hazardous materials, equipment and operations are being used inside laboratory fume hoods.
1.All operations that may generate hazardous air contaminants must be done inside a laboratory fume hood.
2.Safety glasses (goggles), lab coats, and appropriate chemical gloves must be worn when working in, on, or around the fume hood.
3.Do not put your head in the hood, beyond the sash opening.
4.Equipment and materials placed in the hood must not block hood slots, airfoils, or otherwise interfere with the smooth flow of air into the hood.
5.Never place or use equipment that protrudes beyond the face of the hood (sash opening). This configuration will disrupt air flow of air into the hood and reduce its efficiency.
6.Keep all equipment and materials at least 6 inches behind the plane of the sash (hood face), this will improve containment capture. A stripe (tape) on the hood working surface is a good reminder.
7.The only chemicals that should be in the hood are those that are contained in experimental equipment and portable containers which are to be used that day. All portable chemical containers must be removed from the hood when not being used and at the end of the working day.
8.While working inside the hood keep the hood sash closed as much as possible while still allowing comfortable working conditions (never more than 18”).
9.Completely close the hood sash or panels:
i.At the end of the day.
ii.When leaving experiments or chemicals unattended.
iii.When the hood is not in use.
10. Do not:
i.Make quick motions into or out of the hood.
ii.Use fans near, or walk quickly by the hood opening.
These conditions will cause airflow disturbances which reduce the effectiveness of the fume hood.
