Laboratory Fume Hoods

Laboratory fume hoods are partially enclosed workspaces that are exhausted to the outside. The primary purpose of laboratory fume hoods is to keep toxic or irritating vapors out of the general laboratory working area. A secondary purpose is to serve as a shield between the worker and the equipment being used when there is the possibility of an explosive reaction, or to protect the specimen.  Laboratory hoods are comprised of the hood itself and a sash, which is the front panel of the fume hood that can be opened and closed to maximize access and minimize airflow.