How do Fume Hoods work?

Fume Hoods are the primary method of exposure control in the laboratory. These containment devices are vital in providing operator and environmental protection against toxic chemical vapors and particles. Laboratory fume hoods require an exhaust and make-up air system to effectively remove contaminants from the work zone. Aside from containing fumes, it may also function as a physical barrier against chemical spills, reactions, and fires.

Esco Lifesciences offers world-class ducted fume hoods to provide maximum safety and comfort to laboratory personnel. The design employs precisely tuned aerodynamics to ensure optimal airflow and maximize operator safety. The materials used for the external and internal construction are chosen specifically to be resistant and durable when exposed to different chemicals. Esco Ducted fume hoods are known for its efficiency, superior fume containment, and ergonomic features.

Tested and Certified for Safety

Esco Lifesciences is a world leader for fume containment solutions that has international compliance to both the American ASHRAE 110- 2016 and European Standard EN14175. It also received Underwriters Laboratories, USA Classification under the fume hood standard UL 1805, for testing against fire, electrical and mechanical hazards. In addition, the base cabinets are also built and tested according to SEFA-8 recommended practices. This gives you the confidence that all Esco fume hoods are manufactured to provide maximum operator protection and safety.

AMERICAN STANDARD: ASHRAE 110-2016

ASHRAE110-2016 (ANSI approved) checks the containment efficiency of a fume hood. The efficiency is derived from the fume hood’s ability to contain the released challenge gas under normal operation. The ASHRAE110-2016 test facility at Esco is constructed based on the recommendation given by Invent-UK, a third-party organization that certifies fume hoods. First published in 1985 and updated in 2016, this standard employs a set of rigorous tests to evaluate hood performance such as the flow visualization, the face velocity test, and the SF6 containment test. Esco Lifesciences can conduct the complete ASHRAE110-2016 test in our laboratory and during preventive maintenance.

EUROPEAN STANDARD: EN 14175-3

EN 14175 is a harmonized European standard that supersedes the former national standards of Germany, the UK, and France. The EN14175 is comprised of a series of containment tests besides the normal face velocity tests. The containment test includes the Inner Measurement Plane Test, Outer Measurement Plane Test, and the Robustness of Containment Test. A key element of the standard is the robustness test, which simulates airflow disturbance in front of the hood. The challenge gas which is released into the fume hood is 10% SF₆ and 90% N₂. A set of sampling probes is positioned at various predetermined locations to monitor the gas escaping from the hood.

Esco Scientific Ducted Fume Hood Key Features

• Compliance with ASHRAE 110 and EN 14175 for superior fume containment

• Robust construction for withstanding chemicals even at high temperatures

• Easy-to-use rocker switches

• Availability of different worktop materials accommodate different chemical handlings

• Offers a range of base cabinets and support stands

• Has a broad selection for service fixtures and sink types

• Unique baffle design to improve airflow and prevent fume accumulation

• Has an airflow monitoring system with audio and visual alarms to alert the user during airflow failure 

• Equipped with a sash-stop mechanism to remind users to work using the proper height level

• The fume hood unit must have internal lighting to prevent accidents when handling chemicals

• Ergonomic features such as sash sloping to minimize glares and reflections 

• FiltraCheck™ free service to evaluate the application and recommend the suitable ducted fume hood model

A fume hood is an engineering control designed to protect operators from chemical exposure. A ducted fume hood’s primary function is to remove toxic fumes by exhausting them out through a ducting system. Fume hoods are a must-have in any laboratory with chemical applications.

FACTORS YOU SHOULD CONSIDER WHEN PURCHASING LABORATORY FUME HOODS

• Compliance with ASHRAE 110-2016 or EN 14175 to guarantee fume containment.

• Available space in the laboratory- since an exhaust system is required, a site assessment is recommended.

• Type of application – the construction of the fume hood must be durable to handle the work done.

• Chemicals used must be compatible with the materials and design of the lab fume hood.

• Safety Features such as airflow monitoring and Sash-stop mechanism

• Ergonomic features such as sash sloping, accessory inclusions, and possible upgrades to suit customer’s needs.

• Warranty and Spare parts availability

Working Safely with Laboratory Fume Hoods

• Install the fume hood away from any external disturbances such as: foot traffic, door opening, and aircons or fans.
• Ensure that the exhaust has been turned on before commencing work.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and laboratory gown.
• Keep your face outside and practice working at least 6 inches back from the face of the fume hood.
• Move cautiously and avoid deliberate movements to prevent airflow disruption.
• If a potential for explosion or eruption exists, a blast shield should be utilized.
• If a combination sash is installed, do not open the vertical and horizontal sashes simultaneously.
• Do not remove the airfoil or baffles as they aid the fume hood’s airflow.
• Do not use the fume hood as a storage area for chemicals and reagents as it will interfere with the airflow and containment.
• Do not use the fume hood’s sink for waste disposal.
• Do not let chemicals evaporate in the fume hood as a means of disposal.
• Do not leave uncapped bottles of chemicals or waste in the lab fume hood.
• If performance failure is suspected, immediately terminate usage. Close the sash completely and cease work.
• Do not use Perchloric acid in a conventional fume hood because explosive perchlorate salts could accumulate in the exhaust system.
• Perform routine maintenance and certification.