OEH&S Fume Hoods

At UCSF, like any research area, hazardous and volatile chemicals should be handled in a fume hood to minimize human exposure to the chemicals. To operate properly, fume hoods must be equipped with sufficient fan force to provide adequate inward air flow and exhaust from the area. Factors affecting the inward air flow can include proper placement of the fume hood sash, air flow patterns in the surrounding area, and proper operation of the air exhaust fans and equipment.

To ensure their effectivity, all Fume Hoods must be tested and certified on an annual basis. OEH&S performs testing of the fume hoods and maintenance of records.

To meet certification requirements, the face velocity of air flowing into the hood must be at least 100 feet per minute; if the hood is to be used for carcinogens or extremely hazardous chemicals, the face velocity must be at least 150 feet per minute. Should your fume hood usage change, please notify your Department Safety Advisor so the proper test criteria are used.

When the OEH&S representative performs the annual test, a sticker is affixed to the side of the fume hood; this sticker includes the test and certification date. If the sticker indicates the fume hood has not been tested in the past year, please notify OEH&S immediately.

If you are installing or de-installing a fume hood, test and certification is also required; please notify OEH&S of your needs.

For new installations or laboratory remodeling projects, OEH&S should be consulted for proper fume hood placement and design criteria at the laboratory concept design stage.