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FUME HOOD SAFETY

1. Make sure that the exhaust blower is operating and air is entering the hood, prior to starting an experiment.
2. Do not place your face inside the hood. Keep hands out as much as possible.
3. Keep sources of emission "6" inches inside the hood.
4. Minimize storage of chemicals in the hood. Clean up spills immediately. Periodically clean hood interior, including fluorescent bulb panel. If volatile or corrosive materials are stored in the hood, it should be in operation.
5. Avoid blocking off baffle exhaust slots in any manner. Elevate large equipment "2" inches off the base of the fume hood.
6. Be aware of other room ventilation factors that may interfere with your fume hood operation, such as open doors to labs, open windows, blocked exhaust ports or heating and air conditioning vents.
7. Avoid cross drafts and disruptive air currents in front of the fume hood.
8. Use the sash as a safety shield when boiling materials or conducting an experiment with reactive chemicals.
9. Prepare a plan of action in case of an emergency, such as a power failure, especially when using extremely hazardous chemicals or acids.
10. Periodically check air flow through the hood using a source of visible smoke or other air flow indicator, such as a Kim wipe. If air flow has changed, check ductwork, blower, etc. to determine cause.
11. Work with the sash at the proper operating level as indicated by the arrows.