Basic Documentation

Table Of Contents
Laboratory Ventilation Codes and Standards
Siemens Industry, Inc. 48
Topic Requirement(s) Commentary
Periodic
Testing
U.S. OSHA, 29 CFR, Part 1910, Occupational Safety and Health Standards,
Subpart Z, Title: Toxic and Hazardous Substances,1910.1450,C4(h):
(h) Evaluation. Quality and quantity of ventilation should be evaluated on installation,
regularly monitored (at least every 3 months), and reevaluated whenever a change in
local ventilation devices is made.
Canada - Public Works, Standards and Guidelines
MD 15128 Laboratory Fume Hoods
A.2.1.4 Performance tests The following performance test shall be performed at least
once per year:
1. Test for face velocity
2. Test for exhaust air flow rate
3. Test for exhaust fan performance
4. Test of controls
5. Tests for entrainment of auxiliary air supply (auxiliary air supply fume hoods only).
National Fire Protection Association, Standard NFPA 45, 2011
8.13.1 When installed or modified and at least annually thereafter, chemical fume
hoods, chemical fume hood exhaust systems, and laboratory special exhaust systems
shall be inspected and tested as applicable, as follows:
(1) Visual inspection of the physical condition of the hood interior, sash, and ductwork
(see 7.5.3)
(2) Measuring device for hood airflow
(3) Low airflow and loss-of-airflow alarms at each alarm location
(4) Face velocity
(5) Verification of inward airflow over the entire hood face
(6) Changes in work area conditions that might affect hood performance
8.13.3 Chemical fume hood face velocity profile or hood exhaust air quantity shall be
checked after any adjustment to the ventilation system balance.
8.13.4.1 Air system flow detectors, if installed, shall be inspected and tested annually.
ensure against degradation of the fume hood
and associated ventilation system.
Generally, all laboratory safety standards
recommend or mandate that, as a minimum,
both the fume hoods and the associated
ventilation system be tested annually.
Aside from regular periodic testing, re-testing
should be performed anytime changes are
made to the laboratory room or the
associated ventilation system serving the
laboratory rooms.