Chemical Fume Hood

A laboratory fume hood is a ventilated enclosure where hazardous materials can be handled safely. The purpose of the hood is to contain contaminants and prevent their escape into the laboratory. This is accomplished by drawing (by air flow) contaminants within the hood’s work area away from the user thereby preventing and minimizing inhalation and contact with hazardous materials.  To create airflow into the hood, an exhaust blower “pulls” air from the laboratory room into and through the hood and exhaust system. A baffle, airfoil, and other aerodynamically designed components control the patterns of air moving into and through the hood.

How to properly use a chemical hood (aka 'hood')

• Before use check to see if the hood is pulling air properly
• Place chemical containers at least a foot inside the hood
• Use as few containers and pieces of equipment as possible
• In situations where the floor of the hood will be more than 50% covered, work with EH&S to elevate the working surface. This will improve the capture of fugitive vapors and dust.
• Do not use the hood as a long-term storage location
• Keep the hood sash (the sliding glass window) as low as feasible while working, and close it entirely when not in use.