IV. FACILITY AND OPERATIONAL SAFETY RULES
A. Laboratory Fume Hoods
The best method to prevent the release of hazardous chemicals into the laboratory is to conduct all work inside a properly functioning fume hood. The following rule should be followed:
- Air flow on all working fume hoods should be between 60 to 100 lfm minimum with the sash at 12" above fully closed position.
- Never store chemicals or other items in a fume hood that is also used for laboratory work.
- Fume hoods that are not being used for laboratory work should have the sash fully closed.
- All fume hoods should be equipped with a manometer or other pressure or velocity measuring device to enable user to determine that the hood is properly functioning.
- Equipment and chemicals should be placed as far from the hood face as practical to prevent emission from escaping.
- Work should be performed with the hood sash in the lowest practical position.
- Procedures involving highly toxic substances should be performed in a glovebox-equipped hood.
- Check inspection and restriction labels on hoods before using.
- Never block the fume hood vents.
- Do not alter any fume hood ventilation system.
- Contact maintenance and Operations for repair or with alteration questions.
- Always clean the hood when a procedure is completed.
- DO NOT use PERCHLORIC ACID in ANY FUME HOOD unless it is a designated "perchloric acid use" hood.
- Keep laboratory doors closed. This will minimize cross currents, enhance hood performance, and keep odors from spreading throughout the building.
