No-No Fume Hood Placement

Placing the fume hood in an area free from disruption is key to containment. Many times people do not realize that disruptive cross-flow air can defeat the goal of the laminar flow air pattern within the fume hood, and essentially foil containment.

Any quick movement or cross-draft may send a sweeping breeze through the fume hood and into the breathing zone. Placing fume hoods near hallways, doorways, operable windows, a supply or make-up air source, or a heavy foot-traffic area can place the user in harm’s way.

SYMPTOM: Air flow monitor going into alarm intermittently, chemical smells (due to hood not containing)

SOLUTION: Move fume hood to a different location with minimal foot traffic and cross-drafts

Return to the main article, "3 reasons your fume hood isn't working as it should".