Know The Basics Of Laboratory Cupboard For Proper Safety

Are you planningto design a laboratory? First, develop an understanding of its functions.  If you work in any laboratory, you must understand how they synthesize chemical compounds at different scales. In most instances, professionals work for hours in front of the fume cupboard. Every chemist possesses a dedicated fume cupboard, although, in present days, it is transforming.

The market is flooded with many variants of fume cupboards. The common ones include recirculating and ducted cabinets. In the article, experts will guide you with the basics of these cupboards to use them to your advantage. Remember that hazardous materials and fire are typically used in every laboratory. Hence, fume cupboards are designed to ensure safety and security while working in labs. Without a safe environment professionals cannot function here.

What does a fume cupboard do?

Fume cupboards are containment devices that work on absorbing fresh air from the area and releasing contaminated air in the atmosphere in a diluted concentration. The places where these cupboards are installed require a constant air supply when they are in operation. The nature of the chemical and solvent used may significantly impact the ventilation design.

Special consideration is needed on the location of the cupboard inside the laboratory space. You need to follow the guidelines of national and international agencies to ensure your safety. Remember that proper cupboard placement is necessary, and its maintenance is your responsibility.

Tips to design fume hood

When working on the laboratory design, different people have distinct viewpoints. Needless to mention that various individuals hold diverse opinions which may be opposing. However, once the design is made, a consensus is reached. When designing the laboratory, you need to install high-quality fume cupboards like acid hood. Fume hood placement is vital in the laboratory. When these hoods are installed in the laboratory, they bring in more protection. Location and order are critical for maximizing efficiency and maintaining safety. Keep the laboratory design basic when planning the new lab area.

Moreover, the chemical released during the operations plays an important role here. If you go by the recommendation of the national and international Fire Protection association, you will see that constant traffic in the laboratory is not good.

Since many people work in laboratories, their safety is primary. Locate the fume cupboard away from air diffusers and windows, and never locate it in those regions where lab professionals spend much of their time. Always place the emergency station inside the area within a few meters from the fume hood.

Focus on air circulation

For any laboratory, proper circulation of the air is necessary. If you don’t want to add to the ineffectiveness of the operation, try to grab as much fresh air as possible. It will positively impact the overall processing. The exhaust fans and the ventilation system must be in place. Attention must be paid to the wind direction when placing the cupboard. Minute details can make a huge difference. Any negligence can become fatal.

An organized laboratory is a mark of a pragmatic chemist!