A chemical fume hood is critical in a lab. A well-designed hood, when properly installed and maintained, offers a large degree of protection to the user, if it is used appropriately and its limitations are understood.
When Using a Fume Hood:
- You should never allow your head to break the plane of your hood opening;
- Keep your face below the sash if you are working in a vertical rising sash;
- Always use appropriate eye protection;
- Ensure that there is nothing blocking the airflow through the baffles or through the baffle exhaust slots;
- Elevate large equipment (e.g., a centrifuge) at least two inches off the base of the hood interior;
- Ensure all materials are placed at least six inches away from the sash opening. When not working in the hood, close the sash;
- Do not permanently store any chemicals inside the hood;
- Promptly report any hood that is not functioning properly to your supervisor. The sash should be closed, and the hood “tagged” and taken out of service until repairs can be completed; and
- When using extremely hazardous chemicals, understand your laboratory’s action plan in case an emergency, such as a power failure, occurs.
YOU ARE THE KEY TO LABORATORY SAFETY!!
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