Making the most of a used fume hood in a laboratory is a multifaceted endeavor that goes beyond the initial acquisition. Careful planning includes thoughtful consideration of the laboratory layout, ensuring optimal placement for efficient workflow and accessibility. Regular maintenance routines are crucial to sustaining the longevity and functionality of the fume hoods, requiring diligent attention to components such as the sash, alarms, and ventilation systems.
Thoughtful Strategizing
Whether it’s laminar flow hoods, or any other type of hoods, here are some strategies to maximize their utility and safety:
- Thorough Inspection and Maintenance
To optimize the utilization of your used laminar flow hood in the laboratory, begin with a comprehensive inspection to ensure the equipment is in good condition. Examine the hoods for signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. Check critical components such as the sash, airflow monitor, lights, and alarms for fume hoods, and the filter system and airflow distribution for laminar flow hoods. Address any issues promptly through maintenance or repairs.
- Calibration and Performance Testing
Regular calibration is essential to maintain accurate airflow and face velocity in both, a new and used fume hood, and to ensure the proper functioning of the filter system in laminar flow hoods. Conduct performance testing, including smoke tests for fume hoods and particle count tests for laminar flow hoods, to confirm consistent and effective airflow patterns.
- Proper Use and Training
Maximize the utility of used fume hoods and laminar flow hoods by providing comprehensive training to laboratory personnel on correct and safe usage. Emphasize proper sash positioning, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and awareness of potential hazards. Establish and communicate standard operating procedures (SOPs) for fume hood and laminar flow hood use, including specific protocols for handling various chemicals.
- Energy Efficiency
Implement energy-saving practices to optimize the use of fume hoods and laminar flow hoods. Encourage turning off hoods when not in use and consider installing occupancy sensors to control hood operation based on user presence. Adjust ventilation settings for fume hoods and monitor the filter life for laminar flow hoods to balance safety requirements with energy efficiency.
- Upgrade and Retrofitting
Consider upgrading or retrofitting your fume hoods and used laminar flow hood with modern features such as variable air volume (VAV) controls for fume hoods or energy-efficient fans for laminar flow hoods. These enhancements can improve performance and reduce overall energy consumption.
- Regular Monitoring and Auditing
Establish a routine schedule for monitoring and auditing hood usage and performance. Conduct periodic air quality tests for fume hoods and particle count tests for laminar flow hoods to ensure effective containment and cleanliness.
- Compliance with Standards and Regulations
Ensure that both, the used fume hood and laminar flow hoods meet or exceed safety standards and regulations, such as those set by organizations like OSHA or ANSI/AIHA Z9.5. Make any necessary modifications to bring the hoods into compliance.
Assured Safety and Productivity
By following these strategies and incorporating considerations for both fume hoods and laminar flow hoods, laboratories can extend the lifespan of these essential pieces of equipment, enhance safety measures, and promote efficient and sustainable laboratory practices. If you are looking for fume hoods or new or used laminar flow hoods, go online and you’ll find a range of choices at our LEI Sales catalogue.
