A fume hood is essential laboratory equipment that protects people and the surrounding space by capturing hazardous vapors, gases, and aerosols at the source. It is a framed enclosure with a clear movable sash; room air is drawn through the opening, swept across the work zone, and exhausted through baffles to keep contaminants away from the user. Standard designs maintain a face velocity near 0.5 m/s (about 100 fpm) and include sash height markers, internal lighting, and airflow monitors with audible and visual alarms. Models are available as ducted hoods that vent outdoors or as ductless hoods with specialized filters for specific chemicals. Cabinets are typically SS 304 or powder-coated steel with a spill-resistant worktop, service fixtures, and electrical outlets. A fume hood is for chemical containment, not for biohazard or product sterility unless paired with appropriate filtration and protocols.
