Definition

According to the European standard EN 14175-1:2003, a laboratory fume hood is a “protective device to be ventilated by an induced flow of air through an adjustable working opening, with an enclosure designed to limit the spread of airborne contaminants to operators and other personnel outside the device, offering a degree of mechanical protection, and providing for the controlled release of airborne contaminants.”

Critical operating factors for laboratory safety

A fume hood operation is affected by any environmental disturbance:

• Personnel walking by
• Room pressure changes
• Sash movements
• Fume hood loading
• Air filters jamming
• Other operating fume hoods located in the same room
• Incorrect equipment position

A fume hood control system must maintain a stable vortex, whatever the position of the sash, operators, and equipment, while minimizing air extraction.