Fume Cupboard FAQs

Fume cupboard testing plays a crucial role in safeguarding laboratory personnel and upholding safety regulations. These specialised enclosures are designed to control and contain hazardous fumes, vapours, and gases, and regular testing is essential to ensure they function optimally.

A Comprehensive Evaluation:

Testing encompasses various measures to assess crucial performance indicators:

• Airflow: Evaluating the rate and consistency of air drawn into the fume cupboard, ensuring effective capture of contaminants.
• Containment Efficiency: Quantifying the ability of the fume cupboard to prevent hazardous substances from escaping into the laboratory environment.
• Gas Escape: Identifying any potential leaks or breaches in the system that could compromise containment.
• Robustness: Assessing the structural integrity and functionality of the fume cupboard under various operating conditions.

Beyond Legal Compliance:

While mandated by regulations like COSHH in the UK, regular testing extends beyond mere compliance. It provides:

• Peace of Mind: Verifying the safety and effectiveness of fume cupboards, protecting personnel from harmful exposure.
• Confidence in Research: Ensuring accurate and reliable results by minimising contamination risks.
• Cost Savings: Early detection of potential issues prevents costly repairs and downtime.
• Regulatory Adherence: Staying compliant with relevant safety standards and avoiding potential penalties.

By partnering with qualified professionals like HTS for regular fume cupboard testing, laboratories can prioritise safety, optimise research integrity, and achieve cost-effective compliance.

Fume cupboard testing is not just a regulatory requirement, it's an essential investment in the safety, performance, and overall well-being of your laboratory. Here's why:

1. Prioritising Personnel Safety:

• Fume cupboards are your front line of defence against hazardous fumes, vapours, and gases. Regular testing ensures they function optimally, protecting personnel from harmful exposure and minimising health risks.

2. Ensuring Compliance and Confidence:

• Testing upholds compliance with strict standards like BS EN 14175, demonstrating a commitment to safe working environments and avoiding potential penalties. This instills confidence in both regulatory bodies and your workforce.

3. Optimising Equipment Performance:

• Testing goes beyond compliance, providing valuable insights into airflow, containment efficiency, and overall robustness. This ensures your fume cupboards operate at peak performance, delivering reliable results and minimising operational issues.

4. Proactive Risk Management:

• Early detection of problems through testing allows for timely interventions. This prevents costly repairs, downtime, and potentially dangerous accidents or leaks that could impact personnel, the lab, or the environment.

5. Validating Design and Installation:

• Testing confirms that your fume cupboards are properly designed, installed, and equipped, providing the intended level of protection. This guarantees the effectiveness of your ventilation system and the safety of everyone within the lab.

6. Enhancing Quality Assurance:

• When done by a reputable and accredited testing provider like HTS, you gain the assurance that your fume cupboards have undergone thorough evaluations and meet industry-recognised standards. This fosters trust and peace of mind for lab owners, operators, and personnel alike.

Investing in regular fume cupboard testing is not just an obligation, it's a wise decision that safeguards your people, your processes, and your reputation.

Yes, HTS has the expertise and equipment to test almost any make and model of fume cupboard. Our testing procedures meticulously follow the recognised European standard BS EN 14175, ensuring comprehensive evaluation regardless of manufacturer or model.

Why Choose HTS for Your Fume Cupboard Testing?

• Universal Compatibility: We possess the experience and tools to handle diverse makes and models, ensuring seamless testing for your specific equipment.
• Rigorous Standards: Our tests adhere to the strict criteria of BS EN 14175, guaranteeing thorough assessment of performance and containment, exceeding recommended standards.
• On-Site Convenience: For your comfort, we offer onsite testing throughout the UK, minimising disruption to your laboratory operations.
• Unmatched Expertise: Our team of highly trained and qualified engineers provides exceptional service and insightful reports, giving you complete confidence in the results.

More Than Just Make and Model:

Beyond our ability to test various makes and models, HTS offers several additional advantages:

• Bespoke Testing: We cater to unique needs, offering customised testing and reporting protocols beyond standard procedures.
• Comprehensive Services: We go beyond testing, providing maintenance, commissioning, and new fume cupboard consultation, serving as your one-stop shop.
• Industry Accolades: Our commitment to quality is recognised by accreditations like SafeContractor and BSI, reinforcing our expertise and reliability.

Contact HTS Today:

Don't let the make and model of your fume cupboards be a concern. Trust HTS for comprehensive, professional, and convenient testing across the UK. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs and experience the peace of mind that comes with expert fume cupboard testing.

Regular testing is essential to ensure the safe operation of your fume cupboard. This typically includes a series of tests:

• Face velocity tests: Measuring the speed of air entering the hood to verify it's capturing fumes effectively.
• Smoke visualisation tests: Using smoke to visually confirm that the hood contains fumes and prevents them from escaping into the lab.
• Alarm function checks: Testing the hood's alarm system to ensure it alerts users to any malfunctions or unsafe conditions.

Holliday Technical Services (HTS) offers comprehensive fume cupboard testing services, employing qualified technicians who meticulously perform these tests. Their detailed reports provide valuable insights into your hood's performance and highlight any areas needing attention, ensuring your equipment meets or exceeds safety standards.

Simple tests like checking airflow indicators, alarms, and inspecting for visible damage can be done before each use. However, for a thorough assessment of your fume hood's performance, it's crucial to rely on professional testing.

HTS technicians have the expertise and specialised equipment to conduct a full range of tests, including containment testing, air velocity profiling, and alarm calibration.

Calibration involves adjusting the fume hood's controls to maintain optimal face velocity, ensuring effective containment. This process is typically performed by qualified technicians during annual testing and may involve adjusting the hood's exhaust system.

HTS technicians are well-versed in fume hood calibration and can help optimise your hood's performance for maximum safety and efficiency.

UK regulations, specifically the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH), mandate that fume cupboards in pharmaceutical laboratories undergo a thorough examination and testing at least every 14 months. This ensures that your fume cupboards consistently operate at peak performance, effectively containing and removing hazardous pharmaceutical substances, and safeguarding the health and safety of your research personnel.

Increased Frequency for High-Risk Labs

Pharmaceutical labs handling particularly high-risk compounds or utilising fume cupboards frequently may require more frequent testing to maintain optimal safety standards. It's crucial to assess your specific laboratory practices and consult with experts to determine the appropriate testing schedule for your facility.

Holliday Technical Services: Your Partner in Pharmaceutical Fume Cupboard Safety

Holliday Technical Services specialises in fume cupboard testing and maintenance for the pharmaceutical industry in the UK. We understand the unique challenges and regulatory requirements of pharmaceutical labs and are committed to ensuring your fume cupboards operate safely and effectively. Contact us to discuss your specific needs and develop a testing schedule that meets your lab's unique requirements.

HTS emphasises the following safety measures:

• Always wear appropriate PPE: This may include lab coats, safety glasses, gloves, and respirators, depending on the specific chemicals being handled.
• Work at least 15cm inside the hood: This ensures that fumes are captured effectively and minimises the risk of exposure.
• Keep the sash at the recommended height: The sash height is crucial for maintaining proper airflow and containment.
• Avoid storing chemicals or equipment in the hood: This can disrupt airflow and compromise the hood's performance.

Holliday Technical Services offers all laboratories, educational institutions and industry full fume cupboard testing and maintenance services. Trust HTS to take care of annual or ad-hoc fume cupboard testing.

HTS recommends a thorough pre-use check that includes:

• Airflow indicator: Ensure the airflow is within the safe operating range.
• Alarms: Verify that the hood's alarms are functioning correctly.
• Visual inspection: Check for any visible damage, obstructions, or spills.
• Chemical compatibility: Review the safety data sheets for the chemicals you'll be using and ensure the hood is suitable for their specific hazards.

HTS specialise in fume cupboard testing in the UK. Contact us for ad-hoc or scheduled fume cupboard maintenance and fume hood testing.

HTS promotes best practices to maximise safety and efficiency:

• Minimise chemical use: Use the smallest amount of chemicals necessary for your experiments.
• Keep work areas tidy: Avoid clutter, as this can disrupt airflow and make spills more difficult to contain.
• Never block vents: Ensure that the hood's vents are clear of obstructions.
• Clean spills promptly: Address spills immediately to prevent the spread of contamination.
• Work with the sash at the lowest safe height: This maximises containment while still allowing for comfortable operation.

As fume cupboard testing and maintenance specialists Holliday Technical Services offer a comprehensive range of fume cupboard services including fume cupboard maintenance, fume cupboard repair, fume cupboard commissioning and a range of replacement fume cupboard parts including fume cupboard filters, airflow monitoring and replacement fume hood fans. Contact HTS for all of your fume cupboard servicing needs.

The three key things to check are:

1. Airflow indicator: Is the airflow within the safe operating range?
2. Alarms: Are the alarms functioning properly?
3. Visible condition: Is there any visible damage or obstruction to the hood?

HTS are UK Based fume cupboard testing specialists, contact us about your fume hood testing needs.

Some essential rules for safe fume hood operation include:

• Keep the sash at the recommended height.
• Work at least 15cm inside the hood.
• Avoid storing chemicals or equipment in the hood.
• Always wear appropriate PPE.
• Never block vents.
• Clean spills promptly.

Remember, all fume cupboards need to be tested at least every 14 months, or sooner as determined by use. Consider reaching out to Holliday Technical Services for your fume cupboard testing.

Fume cupboards protect users from inhaling hazardous fumes, vapours, and dust generated during experiments. They provide a controlled environment, venting harmful substances away from the work area and minimising the risk of exposure.

HTS understands the importance of this protection and provides expert testing and maintenance to ensure your fume cupboard functions optimally. 

Before using a fume cupboard, ensure:

• Airflow: The airflow indicator is in the safe operating range.
• Alarms: The audible and visual alarms are functioning correctly.
• No damage or obstructions: The hood is free of visible damage, spills, or obstructions.
• Sash height: The sash is at the correct operating height.
• Chemical compatibility: The hood is suitable for the specific chemicals you will be working with.

HTS can provide full servicing for fume cupboards and support to help you understand these safety checks and ensure your fume cupboard is operating safely.

The specific PPE required will vary depending on the chemicals being used. However, some general guidelines include:

• • Lab coat: To protect your clothing from chemical spills.
  • Safety glasses: To protect your eyes from splashes and fumes.
  • Gloves: To protect your hands from chemicals.
  • Respirator: May be necessary for certain hazardous substances.

HTS can help you comply with your obligations under COSHH and offer full fume cupboard testing for UK laboratories, schools, colleges, universities and industry.

Before each use, check:

• Airflow indicator: Ensure the airflow is within the safe operating range.
• Alarms: Verify that the audible and visual alarms are functioning correctly.
• Sash: Ensure the sash is at the correct operating height.
• Obstructions: Check that there are no obstructions in the hood.
• Spills: Clean up any spills before starting work.

HTS are UK based fume cupboard servicing specialists, contact us for a quotation on your fume cupboard testing, maintenance or repairs.

Our highly trained engineers meticulously inspect and test your pharmaceutical fume cupboards, adhering to the stringent standards set out in BS EN 14175-4:2004, BS 7989 and HSG 258. This comprehensive assessment includes:

• Thorough Visual Inspection: A meticulous examination of all fume cupboard components, identifying any signs of damage, wear, or potential hazards specific to pharmaceutical applications.

• Precise Airflow Measurement: Accurate measurement of the face velocity and airflow patterns within the fume cupboard, ensuring optimal containment of hazardous pharmaceutical substances and compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Pharmaceutical Expertise: Our engineers possess in-depth knowledge of the unique demands of pharmaceutical laboratories, allowing them to tailor the testing process to the specific substances and processes used in your facility.

By adhering to these rigorous standards and leveraging our extensive experience in pharmaceutical fume cupboard testing, we guarantee the safety, compliance, and optimal performance of your critical equipment. Trust Holliday Technical Services, with over 18 years of experience, to safeguard your pharmaceutical research and ensure the well-being of your staff. Contact Us 

The potential hazards of decommissioned fume cupboards depend heavily on the materials and processes they were used for. At HTS, we prioritise safety throughout the decommissioning process, ensuring responsible handling and minimising risks.

Understanding Potential Hazards:

• Chemical Residues: Fume cupboards used with hazardous chemicals may require thorough decontamination before they are considered safe for reuse or disposal.
• Radioisotopes and Perchloric Acid: Specific protocols outlined in your lab guidelines should be strictly followed for decommissioning fume cupboards exposed to these materials.
• Asbestos-Containing Materials: Older fume cupboards may contain asbestos, requiring specialised removal by qualified personnel if detected. HTS can advise on asbestos disposal as required.

HTS's Safe Decommissioning Approach:

• Expert Assessment: Our qualified team carefully assesses each fume cupboard, considering its history and potential hazards.
• Tailored Decontamination: We employ appropriate decontamination methods based on the identified risks, utilising a solution of NaHCO₃   to neutralise acids and personal  protective equipment.
• Compliance with Regulations: We adhere to all relevant regulations and guidelines for safe fume cupboard decommissioning, ensuring environmental and personnel safety.

Beyond Safety:

• Waste Management: We handle and dispose of waste materials responsibly, following strict regulations in accordance with our licensed waste carriers certificate. Registration Number: CBDU133562.
• Recycling Opportunities: Where possible, we explore opportunities to recycle components, promoting sustainability and minimising environmental impact.
• Refurbished Equipment: We offer high-quality, refurbished fume cupboards incorporating where possible components responsibly sourced from decommissioned units, providing eco-friendly alternatives.

Contact HTS Today:

Don't underestimate the importance of safe and responsible fume cupboard decommissioning. Partner with HTS to ensure your process adheres to the highest safety standards, minimises environmental impact, and explores potential opportunities for reuse or refurbishment of your fume cupboards.

A fume cupboard is a special type of ventilated cabinet designed to protect staff and researchers from harmful fumes during science experiments.

There are two distinct types of fume cupboard and many variations. In essence a fume cupboard works like a powerful fan, drawing in contaminated air, filtering it using a specialised filter, and then recirculating it back into the room in the case of ductless filtered fume cupboards, or in the case of a ducted fume cupboard drawing in the air and safely releasing the air outside the building via ductwork usually positioned above the cabinet and venting on to a roof or outside wall.

It's important to make sure the lab has proper ventilation so the fume cupboard can function effectively.

Contact HTS about our fume cupboard testing service or about purchasing new fume cupboards, select refurbished fume cupboards, fume cupboard replacement parts including airflow monitoring devices and replacement fume cupboard carbon activated, HEPA or ULPA filter.

Experiments involving hazardous substances should always be conducted in a fume cupboard to:

• Protect personnel: Fume cupboards safeguard users from inhaling harmful fumes, vapours, or dust.
• Contain spills: They help contain spills and reactions, preventing the spread of contamination.
• Control exposure: They provide a controlled environment for handling hazardous materials.

HTS recognises the importance of fume cupboards in protecting laboratory personnel and can advise on the appropriate type of fume cupboard for your specific experiments.

Heating can release fumes or vapours that may be harmful if inhaled. A fume cupboard provides a safe, controlled environment for heating experiments, ensuring that any hazardous substances are captured and vented away from the work area.

HTS can provide support on the best model fume cupboard for your laboratory use. Contact HTS to speak to one of our technical team.

Electrolysis can produce flammable gases like hydrogen and oxygen. A fume cupboard provides the necessary ventilation and containment to prevent the accumulation of these gases, reducing the risk of fire or explosion.

Fume cupboards should not be used for:

• Storing chemicals or equipment: This can disrupt airflow and compromise containment.
• Handling highly explosive substances: Special explosion-proof hoods are required for such materials.
• Experiments that generate excessive heat: Excessive heat can damage the hood and compromise its performance.

HTS are UK fume cupboard testing specialists. Contact us for a quotation for your annual service of your fume cupboards, biological safety cabinets and other Local Exhaust Ventilated equipment.

Fume hoods are designed to handle a wide range of hazardous chemicals, including:

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): These include solvents, paints, and adhesives.
• Acids and bases: These corrosive substances can release harmful fumes.
• Reactive substances: These chemicals can react with other substances to produce hazardous by-products.

HTS can assess your specific chemical usage and recommend the appropriate type of fume cupboard for your needs. We offer a vast range of new ducted fume cupboards, ductless filtered fume hoods, laminar flow cabinets, class II biological safety cabinets, vented enclosures, downflow workstations and much more. Visit https://www.labfumecupboards.com to explore our full range.

For annual fume cupboard testing, repairs or removal of redundant fume cupboards contact HTS.

Any chemical that releases harmful fumes, vapours, or dust when heated should be handled in a fume hood. This includes many organic solvents, acids, and certain reactive compounds.

HTS can help you identify the chemicals that require the use of a fume cupboard for safe handling. We offer a UK wide fume cupboard maintenance and testing service for all laboratories, schools, universities, and industry.

At HTS, we believe in responsible waste management and minimising environmental impact. That's why we're proud to offer fume cupboard and ductwork recycling services as part of our commitment to sustainability.

Can Fume Cupboards and Ductwork Be Recycled?

Absolutely! Our licensed waste carrier team is trained to expertly dismantle and segregate fume cupboard components. We strive to reuse as many parts as possible, extending the lifespan of valuable materials and reducing the need for new production.

Benefits of Recycling with HTS:

• Environmental Responsibility: Divert waste from landfills and minimise your laboratory's environmental footprint.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Reduce disposal costs by opting for responsible recycling over traditional methods.
• Part Availability: Our extensive inventory of used parts for older, no-longer-manufactured fume cupboards can help you source replacement components easily and affordably.
• Sustainable Laboratory Practices: Showcase your commitment to eco-friendly operations by choosing a responsible waste management partner.

Our Recycling Process:

• Expert Dismantling: Our meticulous process ensures careful separation of reusable components from waste materials.
• Component Cleaning and Refurbishment: Reusable parts are thoroughly cleaned and refurbished to meet stringent quality standards.
• Responsible Waste Disposal: Any non-reusable materials are disposed of responsibly and in accordance with regulations.

Beyond Recycling:

• Refurbished Fume Cupboards: We offer a broad range of high-quality, refurbished fume cupboards created using carefully selected reused components, providing a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to new equipment.
• Ongoing Support: Our team is available to advise on optimal recycling practices and guide you through the process seamlessly.

Contact HTS Today:

Choose HTS for your fume cupboard and ductwork recycling needs and experience the benefits of sustainability, cost savings, and access to valuable used parts. We're committed to helping laboratories operate responsibly and contribute to a greener future.

Proper operation is crucial for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of your fume hood.

Follow these steps:

1. Turn on the exhaust fan: Start the exhaust fan and allow it to run for a few minutes before beginning work.
2. Check airflow: Verify that the airflow indicator shows the correct reading, indicating proper ventilation. HTS technicians can ensure your hood's airflow monitor is functioning properly.
3. Lower the sash: Lower the sash to the recommended working height. This is usually indicated by markings on the hood.
4. Place materials inside: Place your materials and equipment at least 15cm inside the hood to ensure adequate containment.
5. Work safely: Perform your experiment, following all safety protocols.
6. Raise the sash: After completing your work, raise the sash to its fully closed position.
7. Turn off the fan (if applicable): Some fume hoods have automatic fans that turn off after a certain period of inactivity.
8. Clean up: Wipe down all surfaces and remove any spills or debris.

Holliday Technical Services can provide comprehensive fume cupboard testing and maintenance to ensure your fume cupboards are operating safely and efficiently and comply with UK legislation on annual fume cupboard testing. Our technicians are highly trained, hold current Enhanced DBS checks and provide fume cupboard testing throughout the UK from Land's End to John O'Groats.

Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring optimal fume cupboard performance and longevity.

Here are some key maintenance tasks:

• Cleaning: Regularly clean the interior and exterior surfaces of the fume hood using appropriate cleaning solutions. HTS can recommend cleaning products and procedures that are safe and effective for your specific hood model.
• Inspection: Inspect the hood for any signs of damage, leaks, or wear and tear.
• Filter replacement: If your hood has filters, replace them according to the manufacturer's recommendations or when they become saturated. HTS offers filter replacement services to ensure your fume hood operates efficiently.
• Professional maintenance: Schedule annual professional maintenance and testing with HTS to ensure your fume hood meets regulatory standards and operates at peak performance.

If your fume hood malfunctions or the airflow indicator shows an abnormal reading, take the following steps:

• Stop work immediately: Cease all activities in the fume hood.
• Inform your supervisor or safety officer: Report the issue to the relevant personnel.
• Do not use the fume hood: Avoid using the fume hood until it has been inspected and repaired by a qualified technician.

HTS offers prompt repair services for fume cupboards throughout the UK, to minimise downtime and ensure your fume cupboard(s) are back in operation as quickly as possible.

Avoid storing chemicals or equipment in the fume hood, as this can disrupt airflow and compromise containment. Additionally, do not use the fume hood for experiments that generate excessive heat or involve highly explosive substances.

Experiments involving radioactive materials, perchloric acid, or those generating excessive heat or large quantities of flammable gases may not be suitable for standard fume hoods.

Special fume hoods with additional safety features are required for such applications. HTS can help you determine the appropriate type of fume cupboard for your specific needs.

While regular maintenance and testing can significantly extend the lifespan of your fume cupboards, there are situations where replacement becomes necessary to ensure optimal safety and performance in your pharmaceutical lab:

1. Failed Safety Tests: If your fume cupboard consistently fails safety tests despite regular maintenance and filter replacements, it's a strong indicator that it may no longer be effectively protecting your personnel and research.
2. Obsolete Technology: Older fume cupboards may lack the advanced safety features and energy efficiency of newer models. Upgrading to a modern fume cupboard can enhance safety, reduce operating costs, and improve the overall performance of your lab.
3. Significant Damage or Wear: Extensive damage or wear to critical components like the sash, liner, or motor can compromise the fume cupboard's ability to contain hazardous substances. In such cases, replacement may be more cost-effective than repeated repairs.
4. Changing Research Needs: If your pharmaceutical research involves new or different hazardous substances, your existing fume cupboard may not be adequately equipped to handle them. Upgrading to a model with specialised features or filtration systems can ensure proper containment and protection.
5. Age: Fume cupboards typically have a lifespan of 10-15 years, depending on usage and maintenance. If your fume cupboard is nearing the end of its expected lifespan, proactive replacement can prevent unexpected breakdowns and safety risks.

Holliday Technical Services can assess your existing fume cupboards and provide expert recommendations on whether repair, maintenance, or replacement is the most appropriate course of action for your UK pharmaceutical lab. Our sister company Holliday Fielding Hocking Ltd is a UK specialist supplier of new fume cupboards and quality refurbished fume cupboards. They are the original fume cupboard provider serving the UK for over 5 generations.

In the UK, the answer depends on two factors:

• Legally: The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations 9 require thorough examination and testing of local exhaust systems (including fume cupboards) at least every 14 months.
• Your specific usage: High-risk situations, as identified by risk assessments, may require more frequent testing. Additionally, you should conduct regular in-house inspections based on the unit's usage (hours per day, chemicals used).

Remember: Fume cupboard malfunctions can put lives at risk. To be extra cautious, HTS offers Scheduled Maintenance Plans to ensure your fume hoods are always tested and maintained on time.

Keeping your fume cupboards safe and compliant:

Regular inspections and cleaning are crucial for safe and efficient fume cupboard operation. Here's a breakdown of routine maintenance to follow:

Monthly:

Cleanliness: Use mild disinfectant cleaner on outer surfaces, chemical neutraliser on the inner cabinet and base, and glass cleaner on the sash.
Sealant and fixtures: Check and clean sealant around drip cups, sinks, and wastes. Inspect service valves and outlets for leaks or damage.
Mobile and semi-mobile units: For mobile cupboards, check the pre-filter and main filter(s). For semi-mobile units, visually inspect the flexible ductwork.

Six-monthly:

Deep clean: Remove and clean the back baffle with a chemical neutraliser. Clean the interior chamber surface.
Mobile cupboards: Replace the pre-filter and inspect/replace main filter (if needed).
Semi-mobile units: Re-inspect the flexible ductwork.

Annually:

Thorough examination and testing: As required by COSHH regulations, a competent person must conduct a thorough examination and testing of the fume cupboard at least every 14 months.

By following these fume cupboard maintenance steps, you can ensure your fume cupboards are operating effectively and complying with safety regulations. Remember, always isolate electrical and mechanical services before cleaning or maintenance, and prioritise chemical safety throughout the process.

Fume cupboards work by capturing and exhausting hazardous fumes, vapours, or dust through a ventilation system. The airflow creates a barrier, preventing harmful substances from entering the work area. This negative pressure environment draws air (and contaminants) in through the opening and exhausts it through a filter or duct system, ensuring a safe working environment.

HTS understands these principles and applies them to their rigorous testing and maintenance procedures. We offer a wide range of fume cupboard services including fume cupboard testing, fume cupboard repair and replacement fume cupboard parts including fume cupboard filters for laboratories, schools, universities and industry in the UK.

The primary functions of a fume cupboard are:

1. To protect personnel: By capturing and removing harmful fumes, vapours, and dust, fume cupboards safeguard users from exposure to hazardous substances.
2. To contain spills and prevent contamination: Fume cupboards provide a controlled environment, minimising the risk of spills and preventing the spread of contamination in the lab.

HTS are fume cupboard maintenance and testing specialists based in the UK and provide onsite services to laboratories, schools, universities and industry. Trust HTS for your fume cupboard servicing, contact us for a quotation. 

If not properly maintained or used incorrectly, fume cupboards can become a source of exposure to hazardous substances. Leaks, inadequate airflow, or improper use can compromise their effectiveness.

HTS mitigates these risks through regular testing, maintenance, and user training, contact us to learn more.

The fume cupboard operates on the principle of creating a negative pressure environment within the hood. This is achieved by a fan that draws air into the hood through the front opening, creating a barrier that prevents fumes from escaping into the lab.

The contaminated air is then exhausted through a filtration or duct system, ensuring a safe working environment for users.

Holliday Technical Services leverages this principle when testing and calibrating fume cupboards, ensuring the negative pressure is sufficient to contain hazardous substances effectively. Reach out to HTS about your fume cupboard testing. Supplying UK laboratories, education and industry for over 18 years.

The relevant British Standard for fume cupboards is BS EN 14175. This comprehensive standard outlines requirements for the design, construction, performance, and testing of fume cupboards. It covers aspects like face velocity, containment, materials of construction, and alarm systems.

Additional Relevant Standards: We are proficient in conducting tests based on specific needs and equipment types, including:

• Schools Fume Cupboards (G9 / BB:88): Ensuring safety in educational settings.
• Filtered Fume Cupboards (BS 7989:2001): Verifying the performance of filter-based systems.
• Mobile Fume Cupboard (Various Standards): Adhering to appropriate standards for portable units.
• COSHH Testing (HSG258): Assessing compliance with UK regulations on the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health.
• LEV Testing (HSG258): Evaluating Local Exhaust Ventilation systems for optimal performance.
• Thorough LEV Testing (HSG258): Conducting in-depth assessments for complex systems.
• Extraction Hood Testing (HSG258): Ensuring effective capture of contaminants at the source.
• Containment Testing (BS EN 14175): Measuring the ability of your fume cupboard to prevent hazardous substances from escaping.
• Commissioning / Re-Commissioning (Various Standards): Verifying proper installation and functionality after installation or updates.

HTS technicians are well-versed in these standard and ensure that your fume cupboard complies with all its requirements. HTS technicians have undertaken P600/P601 training, which covers the theory and practice for LEV practitioners to undertake the maintenance, examinations and testing of LEV plant equipment, asbestos awareness, in-house training and we are members of: Bsi, Reset, Constructionline and SafeContractor.

Regular inspections are crucial for maintaining fume cupboard safety and performance. HTS recommends the following inspection schedule:

• Before each use: Conduct a brief visual inspection to ensure the fume hood is in good working order, checking the airflow indicator, alarms, and for any visible damage.
• Annually: Schedule a comprehensive professional inspection and testing with HTS. Our technicians will perform a thorough assessment of your fume cupboard, ensuring it meets regulatory standards and identifying any potential issues.

Whether or not you need a respirator while working in a fume hood depends on the specific chemicals being handled. Some substances, even when used in a fume hood, may require respiratory protection due to their volatility or toxicity. Always consult the chemical safety data sheet (SDS) and risk assessment for guidance on the appropriate PPE, including respirators.

HTS can assist you in conducting risk assessments and selecting the appropriate PPE for your specific work environment.

UK pharmaceutical laboratories must adhere to stringent safety standards for fume cupboards to ensure the protection of staff and the integrity of research. For ducted fume cupboards, the primary standard is BS EN 14175, which outlines critical guidelines for design, construction, and performance. For ductless filtered fume cupboards, BS 7989 is the applicable standard.

These standards, along with other relevant regulations such as HSG 258 and COSHH, provide a framework for ensuring fume cupboards effectively contain and remove hazardous pharmaceutical substances. They cover aspects like face velocity, containment, filter efficiency, and overall safety features.

At Holliday Technical Services, we are fully committed to upholding these standards in all our fume cupboard testing and maintenance services. Our experienced engineers meticulously assess your fume cupboards, regardless of type, to ensure they meet or exceed the requirements of all relevant standards and regulations. We guarantee optimal safety and compliance for your pharmaceutical lab, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to focus on your critical research.

With over 18 years of experience serving the pharmaceutical industry, we have a proven track record of providing outstanding fume cupboard testing and maintenance services that adhere to the highest safety standards. Contact us today to discuss your specific needs and ensure your lab's fume cupboards are operating safely and effectively.

At HTS, we understand the essential role fume cupboards play in laboratory safety and efficiency. That's why we partner with our sister company, Holliday Fielding Hocking (HFH), a highly respected UK supplier of diverse fume cupboard solutions.

Why Choose HFH for Your New Fume Cupboard?

• Extensive Selection: Discover a comprehensive range of fume cupboards to suit your specific needs, including:
  • Ducted fume cupboards for various applications and extraction requirements.
  • Educational demonstration fume cupboards for safe and engaging learning environments.
  • Ductless fume cupboards in various sizes and configurations for flexible laboratory setups.
  • Laminar flow cabinets for sterile environments and sensitive procedures.
  • Class II Biosafety cabinets for safe handling of biological agents.
  • Additional laboratory extraction arms, enclosures, and specialist cabinets for unique needs.
• Unmatched Expertise: Benefit from HFH's decades of experience in designing, manufacturing, and installing high-quality fume cupboards.
• Tailored Solutions: Receive expert guidance in selecting the optimal fume cupboard configuration based on your specific laboratory needs and airflow requirements.
• Seamless Integration: Leverage HTS's expertise for professional installation and commissioning, ensuring your new fume cupboard functions flawlessly.
• Ongoing Support: Enjoy peace of mind with HFH's responsive after-sales support, including maintenance and testing services.

Reach Out Today:

Don't limit yourself to standard options. Contact HFH directly to discuss your specific requirements and explore the full range of possibilities for your new fume cupboard. Their extensive selection, combined with HTS's installation expertise, ensures you receive the perfect solution for your laboratory.