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101 Do’s and Don’ts: The Lab Rat’s Handbook for Mastering the Art of Fume Hood Safety

A window with scientific dry-erase writing on it and tubes and valves in the background.

In many laboratory settings, fume hoods are one of the most important pieces of equipment in use. They provide a safe and effective means of handling hazardous chemicals and substances that could cause harm to workers if not handled correctly. Fume hoods work by creating a barrier between the worker and the hazardous materials, using airflow and ventilation to prevent the escape of dangerous fumes and vapors. As such, it’s essential that laboratory workers are aware of the proper use of fume hoods, including both the do’s and don’ts.

One of the most critical aspects of using a fume hood effectively is ensuring that the hood is properly maintained and functioning correctly. This includes regular inspections to ensure that the ventilation system is working as it should and that the hood’s sash is appropriately adjusted. It’s also essential to use the correct type of fume hood for the materials being used, as different hoods are designed to handle different types of hazards. For example, a hood used for corrosive materials may not be appropriate for use with flammable liquids.

Another essential component of fume hood safety is the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This may include gloves, safety glasses, respirators, or other specialized equipment, depending on the hazards being encountered. Workers should also be trained on proper PPE use and how to handle and dispose of contaminated equipment and materials. Finally, proper communication and coordination between workers using fume hoods is critical to ensuring that everyone is aware of the hazards being handled and can work together to minimize risks.

Overall, understanding the do’s and don’ts of fume hood use is essential to ensuring worker safety in laboratory settings. By following proper procedures and best practices, laboratory workers can effectively mitigate the risks associated with hazardous materials and substances, ensuring a safe and healthy work environment for all.

Fume Hood Safety: 50 Must Do’s for Your Lab Rat Handbook

  1. Do use a face shield or respiratory protection when working with highly toxic or carcinogenic chemicals.
  2. Do keep the fume hood clean and free of clutter to avoid blocking airflow.
  3. Do make sure that the fume hood exhaust system is not obstructed and is working properly.
  4. Do use a fume hood that is appropriate for the type of chemical or substance being used.
  5. Do use a fume hood that has a sufficient size to accommodate the materials and equipment being used.
  6. Do use a fume hood with a variable speed blower to adjust airflow based on the type and quantity of chemicals being used.
  7. Do use a fume hood with a sash that is easy to operate and adjust.
  8. Do use a fume hood that has a fire suppression system installed or nearby.
  9. Do use a fume hood that has a warning alarm to alert users of any issues with the exhaust system.
  10. Do use a fume hood that is located in a well-ventilated area.
  11. Do ensure that the fume hood is connected to a proper exhaust system that vents to the outside.
  12. Do use a fume hood that has a monitoring system to alert users to changes in airflow or pressure.
  13. Do use a fume hood that has a backup power source in case of a power outage.
  14. Do use a fume hood that has an emergency stop button in case of an emergency.
  15. Do use a fume hood that has a safety interlock to prevent operation if the sash is not in the proper position.
  16. Do use a fume hood that has a pressure gauge to monitor the air pressure inside the hood. 
  17. Do use a fume hood that has a gas detection system to alert users to the presence of dangerous gases.
  18. Do use a fume hood that has a spill containment system to prevent spills from escaping the hood.
  19. Do use a fume hood that has a lighting system to illuminate the workspace.
  20. Do use a fume hood that has a ventilation system that is compliant with all applicable regulations and standards.
  21. Do ensure that the fume hood is properly installed and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  22. Do use a fume hood that is designed for the type of work being performed (e.g. acid hood, radioisotope hood, etc.).
  23. Do use a fume hood that has a clear and visible maximum working height indicated on the sash.
  24. Do use a fume hood that has a fan speed controller to adjust the airflow rate.
  25. Do use a fume hood that has a carbon filter to clean contaminated air before it recirculates back into the work area (Applies to ductless fume hoods).
  26. Do use a fume hood that has a pressure sensor to monitor the airflow velocity.
  27. Do ensure that the fume hood is equipped with an audible and visual alarm system to indicate low airflow or malfunction.
  28. Do ensure that the fume hood has a minimum face velocity of 100 feet per minute (fpm) or greater, as required by OSHA and other regulations.
  29. Do ensure that the fume hood is certified annually by a qualified professional to ensure proper functioning.
  30. Do ensure that the fume hood is equipped with a backup power source such as a generator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) in case of a power outage.
  31. Do ensure that the fume hood is equipped with an automatic fire suppression system.
  32. Do ensure that the fume hood is equipped with a properly installed and maintained exhaust duct system (Does not apply to ductless fume hoods).
  33. Do ensure that the fume hood is equipped with an alarm system that will alert personnel to any malfunction.
  34. Do ensure that the fume hood is equipped with a continuous air flow monitor that detects any changes in airflow.
  35. Do ensure that the fume hood is properly calibrated and serviced at regular intervals to ensure optimal performance.
  36. Do use a fume hood that has a transparent sash or window to allow for easy visual monitoring of the experiment.
  37. Do use a fume hood that has an adjustable sash height to accommodate different experimental setups.
  38. Do use a fume hood that has a built-in lighting system to improve visibility.
  39. Do use a fume hood that has a removable baffle or tray for easy cleaning and maintenance.
  40. Do use a fume hood that has an audible alarm system to alert users to any changes in airflow or pressure.
  41. Do use a fume hood that has a digital display to show real-time information on airflow, pressure, and temperature.
  42. Do use a fume hood that has a designated space for storing chemicals and equipment.
  43. Do use a fume hood that has a clear evacuation plan in case of emergency.
  44. Do use a fume hood that has a proper waste disposal system to safely remove hazardous materials.
  45. Do ensure that the fume hood is properly labeled with the type of chemicals being used and any hazards associated with them.
  46. Do ensure that the fume hood is properly ventilated to prevent the buildup of toxic gases and vapors.
  47. Do use a fume hood that has a clear and unobstructed path to the exit in case of emergency.
  48. Do use a fume hood that has a proper ventilation system to prevent the buildup of flammable or explosive vapors.
  49. Do use a fume hood that has a backup alarm system in case of a malfunction.
  50. Do use a fume hood that has a built-in safety interlock to prevent accidental operation.
Keep the fume hood clean and free of clutter to avoid blocking airflow

Clearing the Air: 51 Fume Hood Don’ts for the Savvy Lab Rat

  1. Don’t use a fume hood without appropriate training and authorization.
  2. Don’t use a fume hood for non-chemical purposes, such as storage or as a workspace.
  3. Don’t use a fume hood that is not functioning properly or is damaged.
  4. Don’t use a fume hood that does not have proper airflow or ventilation.
  5. Don’t use a fume hood with an obstructed or partially open sash.
  6. Don’t use a fume hood with an inadequate exhaust system.
  7. Don’t use a fume hood with a damaged or missing baffle.
  8. Don’t use a fume hood without appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
  9. Don’t use a fume hood that is not grounded properly.
  10. Don’t use a fume hood that has not been inspected and certified by a qualified technician.
  11. Don’t use a fume hood without proper emergency equipment, such as a fire extinguisher or eye wash station, nearby.
  12. Don’t use a fume hood with an improper sash height or open sash height.
  13. Don’t use a fume hood with an obstructed airflow monitor.
  14. Don’t use a fume hood with an obstructed drain or spill tray.
  15. Don’t use a fume hood with chemicals or substances that are not compatible with the hood’s materials of construction.
  16. Don’t use a fume hood with excessive clutter or equipment that could interfere with proper airflow.
  17. Don’t use a fume hood with an open flame or heat source.
  18. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that generates excessive heat, such as an oven or hot plate.
  19. Don’t use a fume hood as a bio-safety cabinet.
  20. Don’t use a fume hood with chemicals or substances that are not properly labeled.
  21. Don’t use a fume hood with chemicals or substances that are not properly stored.
  22. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that produces excessive noise or vibration.
  23. Don’t use a fume hood without proper ventilation or exhaust ducts.
  24. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that is not properly grounded.
  25. Don’t use a fume hood without proper signage indicating its use.
  26. Don’t use a fume hood with incompatible chemicals or substances.
  27. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that has been modified or tampered with.
  28. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that is not properly calibrated or maintained.
  29. Don’t use a fume hood without proper spill containment measures in place.
  30. Don’t use a fume hood with chemicals or substances that have not been properly documented and approved.
  31. Don’t use a fume hood without proper ventilation or airflow control.
  32. Don’t use a fume hood without proper lighting or visibility.
  33. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that generates excessive dust or particles.
  34. Don’t use a fume hood with chemicals or substances that are not properly disposed of.
  35. Don’t use a fume hood without proper access to emergency shut-off controls.
  36. Don’t use a fume hood with incompatible electrical equipment or devices.
  37. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that is not properly secured or anchored.
  38. Don’t use a fume hood without proper training on emergency procedures.
  39. Don’t use a fume hood without proper ventilation or air filtration.
  40. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that produces excessive odor or fumes.
  41. Don’t use a fume hood with incompatible or unapproved chemicals or substances.
  42. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that produces excessive vibration.
  43. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that is not properly labeled or identified.
  44. Don’t use a fume hood without proper grounding or electrical safety measures.
  45. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that has been damaged or is not functioning properly.
  46. Don’t use a fume hood without proper communication or coordination with other users in the area.
  47. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that is not properly calibrated or maintained.
  48. Don’t use a fume hood with chemicals or substances that have not been properly diluted or prepared.
  49. Don’t use a fume hood with equipment that produces excessive heat or cold.
  50. Don’t use a fume hood with chemicals or substances that are not compatible with other chemicals or substances in the hood.
  51. Don’t use a fume hood without proper emergency procedures and protocols in place.
What are fume hoods used for
For the safety of yourself and others around you, never use a fume hood for chemical storage under any circumstance.

Breathing Easy After Mastering Fume Hood Safety with Essential Do’s and Don’ts

Fume hoods are a critical piece of laboratory equipment used to protect workers from hazardous chemicals and substances. The proper use of fume hoods is essential to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for laboratory workers. By understanding and following the do’s and don’ts of fume hood use, laboratory workers can effectively mitigate the risks associated with hazardous materials and substances.

We’ve listed 50 do’s and 51 don’ts of fume hood use, covering key safety considerations and best practices. Some of the most important do’s include using a fume hood when working with hazardous chemicals or substances that emit harmful fumes, conducting regular visual inspections of the fume hood before use, and using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with chemicals.

Fume hood safety
The proper use of a fume hood will increase the safety of your lab, assist in protecting the environment, and aid in ensuring that your laboratory runs more efficiently. 

On the other hand, some of the most critical don’ts of fume hood use include never blocking the airflow into or out of the hood, never leaving a fume hood running if it’s not being used, and never using a fume hood for purposes other than the intended use. By following these guidelines and practicing proper fume hood safety, laboratory workers can minimize the risks associated with handling hazardous materials and substances, ensuring a safe and healthy work environment for all.

If you need assistance in choosing the right fume hood or cabinet for your work area, please don’t hesitate to contact us. At Fisher American, we have a remarkable selection of casework, workstations, fume hoods, and related lab products. Most of our items can be shipped quickly. In most cases, less than two weeks.

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