Chemical Hygiene Plan - Queensborough Community College ...

The EHSO can provide information regarding the selection, purchase, and inspection
requirements for laminar flow clean benches, biosafety cabinets, and portable fume hoods. For
more information, see the Laboratory Design and Construction section in this manual or contact
your EHSO.
9.1.4 Removal of Existing Fume Hoods
Any removal of fume hoods and capture devices requires prior consultation with your Facilities
Management and EHS Office. This is necessary to ensure that building ventilation systems are
not affected by removal of fume hoods and capture devices, and so that utility services such as
electrical lines, plumbing systems, and water and gas supply lines are properly disconnected.
There is an additional concern for the presence of asbestos within the fume hood itself, and
potentially in any pipe insulation associated with the ductwork and/or mercury in cup sinks. Any
asbestos must be properly removed and disposed of by a certified asbestos removal company.
The EHSO can assist laboratories with the cleanup of any mercury contamination. Contact your
EHSO for more information or questions about potential asbestos or mercury contamination.
See Appendix D for more information.
9.2 Other Capture Devices
Other engineering controls for proper ventilation include glove boxes, compressed gas cabinets,
vented storage cabinets, canopy hoods, and snorkels. These pieces of equipment are designed to
capture hazardous chemical vapors, fumes, and dusts at the source of potential contamination.
Examples where these capture devices would be appropriate include welding operations, atomic
absorption units, vacuum pumps, and other operations.
Please note that when other laboratory apparatus (such as vacuum pumps and storage cabinets)
are vented into the face or side of a fume hood, disruptions can occur in the design flow of the
hood and result in lower capture efficiency. When such venting is deemed necessary, the
connection should be further along the exhaust ducts of the hood system rather than into the face
of the hood. To avoid the possibility of disrupting the efficiency and operation of the fume hood,
any additional installations or adjustments should not be undertaken without first consulting with
Facilities Services, your EHSO, and the appropriate campus service shops.
9.3 Biological Safety Cabinets
Biological Safety Cabinets (BSC) are engineering devices that reduce the risk of working with
biohazardous and infectious microorganisms. Cabinets are also used for maintaining aseptic
conditions when working with cell cultures. BSCs utilize High Efficiency Particulate Air
(HEPA) filters in the supply air and exhaust systems to create a nearly sterile work environment.
Thus, BSCs provide personnel, environmental, and product protection when appropriate
practices and procedures are followed.
Contact the EHS Office to determine the appropriate cabinet for your applications and space
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