DE-93-18-2 -- Measuring Fume Hood Diversity in an Industrial Laboratory PDF

Fume hood use in one wing of the research centre of a Midwest-based paints and coatings manufacturer was measured using a simple survey form attached to the front of each fume hood. For a period of one month, fume hood users logged the time they began work in the hood, the approximate sash height, the procedure performed in the hood, and the time of departure from the hood. In addition, a "remarks" column allowed the user to note any unusual conditions at the hood. Fifty-six fume hoods were evaluated. The data were correlated to show the following - mean air flows for a given day, mean air flows at given times during a day, peak air flow use, and significant behaviour patterns of hood users. Though simple in concept, this procedure will provide a basis for the design of planned exhaust systems at this research centre.

KEYWORDS: measuring, exhaust hoods, industrial, laboratories, paints industry, personnel, air flow rate, air flow, behaviour, research.