1. Limit chemical storage in fume hoods. Hoods are not intended for storage, therefore, chemicals should be moved from hoods to vented cabinets for storage.
2. Hoods should not be regarded as a means for disposing of chemicals. Do not purposefully evaporate solvents in a hood.
3. When using large apparatus inside the hood, place the apparatus on blocks when safe and practical to allow air flow beneath it. Operate the hood with the vertical sash as low as practical. If the hood is equipped with horizontal sashes, keep them closed as much as practical. Keeping the hood opening small will increase overall performance.
4. Sliding sashes should not be removed from horizontal sliding-sash hoods. The hood should be kept closed, except when adjustments of apparatus within the hood are being made. Work at least 6 inches into the hood. Use sliding sash for partial protection during hazardous work.
5. Do not lean into the hood, make quick motions into or out of the hood or walk quickly by the hood opening since this causes airflow disturbances.
6. Use the right hood for the job.
Label hoods for special use when practical.
7. If you are concerned about the efficiency of your lab hoods contact the Environmental Health and Safety Office. The Environmental Health and Safety Office will conduct a ventilation survey.
8. Do not leave a fume hood unattended while conducting an experiment in the hood. This is especially important when using flammable liquids. If lab procedure requires evaporation of flammable liquid the hot plate and other equipment should be designated for use in class I, division I flammable environments.
Questions
related to this information and other workplace environmental health and
safety issues should be directed toDan
Sweetman, Environmental Health and Safety Manager, University of Wisconsin
- La Crosse, 855 East Avenue North, La Crosse, WI 54601 EMail: sweetman@mail.uwlax.edu
Telephone: (608)785-6800 Fax: (608)785-6577
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