Fume Cupboards: Your Lab's Safety BFF (and How to Treat Them Right)
Ever wondered about the big, boxy things with glass windows in laboratories? Those are fume cupboards (or fume hoods, if you're across the pond), and they're like the best friend your lab never knew it needed. They're always there to protect you from the nasty stuff, like hazardous fumes, vapours, and gases that can put your health at risk.
But like any good friendship, taking care of your fume cupboard is key. If you don't give it the TLC it deserves, it might not be able to do its job properly, putting you and your experiments in danger.
So, let's dive into the top five do's and don'ts of fume cupboard care, making sure you get the most out of this essential piece of lab equipment.
But who are we and why should you listen to us? We are Holliday Technical Services (HTS), a UK based specialist in fume cupboard servicing, maintenance and annual testing. HTS are based in Yorkshire and provide onsite fume cupboard services for all laboratories, universities, schools and industry in the UK. Our mobile fume cupboard technicians maintain thousands of fume cupboards each year, so we know a thing or two about fume cupboard operations. Our sister company Holliday Fielding Hocking Ltd are one of the UKs most respected fume cupboard installation companies and having operated for over 70 years we have an in-depth understanding of fume extracted equipment and offer new and used/refurbished fume cupboards.
Consider reaching out to us for your annual fume cupboard testing or if you are looking for fume cupboard repairs, fume cupboard filters or new or used fume cupboards.
Enough about us, we'll be here if you need us, so let's get back to the article.
DO: Use Your Fume Cupboard – But Use It Wisely!
Fume cupboards are specifically designed to keep you safe. To make the most of them:
- Know Your Risks: Before starting any experiment, take a minute to think about the chemicals you're using. Are they hazardous? Do they release fumes? If so, it's time to call on your fume cupboard buddy.
- Choose the Right Cupboard: Not all fume cupboards are the same. Some are ducted (meaning they vent fumes outside), while others are ductless (using filters to clean the air). Make sure you've got the right type for your needs.
- Keep Things Tidy: A clean fume cupboard works better and helps prevent the build up of harmful residues. Regularly wipe it down inside and out.
- Don't Be a Pack Rat: Cramming too much stuff inside your fume cupboard can block the airflow and make it less effective. Only put in what you need for your current experiment.
- Shut the Door (or Sash): When you're not using the fume cupboard, close the sash. This saves energy and keeps fumes from escaping into the lab.
DON'T: Fall Into These Common Traps
Avoiding these mistakes will keep your fume cupboard working its best:
- Wrong Materials: If you're using a ducted fume cupboard, make sure the ductwork is made of materials that can handle the chemicals you're using. Otherwise, it's like trying to hold water with a sieve – not very effective!
- Skipping Maintenance: Just like your car needs a tune-up, your fume cupboard needs regular maintenance. Don't ignore it! Check the airflow, filters, and alarm systems regularly and ensure your fume cupboard is tested by a competent technician as a minimum, every 14 months.
- Storage Space Overload: Your fume cupboard is not a storage unit. Storing stuff inside can block airflow and make it less effective.
- The Jack-of-All-Trades Approach: Fume cupboards are designed for specific hazards. Don't try to use them for things they're not meant for, like biological agents or radioactive materials.
- Ignoring the Signs: If you hear strange noises or smell something funky, don't ignore it. Your fume cupboard might be trying to tell you something's wrong.
The Holliday Technical Services Advantage
Keeping your fume cupboards in tip-top shape might seem like a lot to handle, but that's where we come in. Holliday Technical Services (HTS) is your one-stop shop for fume cupboard care in the UK.
We offer comprehensive testing, maintenance, repairs, and even replacement parts. Our expert technicians are trained to the highest standards and can help you navigate the often-complex world of fume cupboard regulations and safety.
Your Safety is Our Priority
At HTS, we believe that everyone deserves a safe and healthy work environment. We're committed to providing reliable, top-notch service so you can focus on your important work, knowing your fume cupboards are in good hands.
Need Help with Your Fume Cupboard?
Don't wait until something goes wrong! Contact HTS today to schedule your fume cupboard servicing or to learn more about our comprehensive range of services. Let us be your partner in lab safety!