1.8 – Chemical Fume Hood Evaluation

Every laboratory ventilation hood used for the control of air contaminants shall be tested and or inspected annually to assure that adequate airflow is being maintained to provide continued protection against employee over-exposure. The Director of EHS (or trained assistant) is responsible for performing the inspections and testing. Laboratory hood airflow shall be considered adequate when the average face velocity equals 100 FPM (+20%) with the hood sash at a working height (15 to 20 inches) for the older style hood and 60 FPM (+20%) for the newer style hoods. On the older (original) hoods a label with matchable arrows is placed on the sash and frame of the hood to show optimum placement of sash and includes date of inspection and airflow at time of inspection. Other local exhaust ventilation, such as instrument vents, will also be tested. Results of laboratory ventilation tests shall be recorded and maintained by the Director of EHS.

Each laboratory fume hood in Hall-Atwater is now equipped with a Magnehelic Flow Indicator or digital Phoenix Control readout, before doing work in your hood, ensure the needle is within the operating range indicated on the face of the meter. If not, contact Camille Keeler at ext. 2729 or ckeeler01@wesleyan.edu.