Fume Hood

A fume hood or fume cupboard (also digestor or digestorium, especially in Switzerland also chapel) is an important component of scientific laboratories, especially in chemistry, and is used for safe working and protection of the experimenter. A fume hood is used to immediately extract gases, dusts and aerosols produced during experiments from the air. Most fume hoods are equipped with connections for electricity, natural gas, nitrogen and cooling water as well as drains. The movable panes provide access to the work area and, when closed, protect the laboratory and workers from splinters, splashing liquids, or the spread of fire in the event of an accident (boiling delay, uncontrolled reactions, fires, and minor explosions). Whether the use of a fume hood is necessary is usually indicated in the respective safety data sheet for the hazardous substances used. If a hazard due to fire, dust or gas development cannot be ruled out, a fume hood must be used in any case.