A Step-By-Step Guide To Fume Hood Calibration
Fume hood calibration is a critical aspect of laboratory safety. Proper calibration ensures that your fume hood effectively removes hazardous fumes, vapors, and dust, providing a safe working environment. Regular calibration is necessary to maintain performance and comply with safety regulations. Whether you’re a lab technician or facility manager, understanding how to calibrate a fume hood can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and efficiency.
Prepare the Workspace
Before starting the calibration, you need to prepare the workspace. Begin by clearing any materials or equipment from the fume hood area. This ensures that nothing obstructs the airflow during the calibration process. Check that the sash is clean and in good condition, as any obstructions or damage could affect airflow measurements. Ensure the room is free from drafts and air disruptions to guarantee accurate readings.
Gather Necessary Equipment
To calibrate a fume hood, you will need specific equipment. A calibrated anemometer or a velocity meter is essential for measuring the airflow. Make sure these devices are in good working order and have been recently calibrated to ensure accuracy. You’ll also need a smoke generator or a chemical smoke stick, which helps visualize the airflow pattern. Gather safety equipment, including gloves and goggles, to protect yourself during the process.
Measure Face Velocity
The face velocity is the speed of air entering the fume hood and is a critical factor in its effectiveness. To measure face velocity, position the anemometer at the hood’s opening, approximately 6 inches from the sash. Measure at several points across the hood’s opening to get an accurate average velocity. This reading should typically be between 80 and 120 feet per minute (fpm). If the velocity is outside this range, adjustments may be needed.
Conduct a Smoke Test
A smoke test helps visualize the airflow pattern within the fume hood. Use the smoke generator or chemical smoke stick to release smoke at various points inside the hood. Observe how the smoke behaves; it should be drawn smoothly into the exhaust system without lingering in the workspace. If you notice any turbulence or areas where the smoke escapes the hood, it may indicate an airflow issue that requires attention.
Adjust Airflow as Needed
If the face velocity or smoke test results indicate poor performance, adjustments may be necessary. Start by checking the fume hood’s exhaust fan settings. Increasing or decreasing the fan speed can help achieve the desired airflow. Also, check for any obstructions in the ductwork or exhaust system that could impede airflow. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filters and ensuring the ductwork is clear, can also improve performance.
Document the Results
Once the calibration is complete, document the results for future reference. Record the date, time, and person conducting the calibration, along with the face velocity readings and any adjustments made. This documentation is necessary to maintain compliance with safety standards and provides a reference for future calibrations. Keeping a detailed log helps track the fume hood’s performance over time and ensures consistent safety measures.
Stay Safe and Compliant: Expert Fume Hood Calibration by LOC Scientific
Keep your laboratory safe and efficient with LOC Scientific‘s comprehensive fume hood calibration services. Our experienced team will ensure your fume hood system is operating at optimal performance, preventing hazardous fume spillage and protecting your personnel.
By fine-tuning your equipment, we can help you achieve significant energy-cost savings while maintaining compliance with OSHA recommendations. From the base cabinet to the exhaust stack, we provide complete servicing to guarantee your lab’s safety and functionality. Contact us today to schedule a calibration and keep your lab running smoothly and safely.