The Value of Commissioning in Providing Highly Effective Laboratory Ventilation Systems

Thomas C. Smith, Exposure Control Technologies, Inc.
Robert Payne, EPA, Research Triangle Park

Abstract:

The effectiveness of a laboratory hood system comprised of the hood, supply system and exhaust system can be considered a function of safety, dependability and efficiency. A laboratory hood system when used by trained laboratory personnel must be capable of preventing overexposure to a variety of hazards. The systems must operate predictably within tight tolerances to provide satisfactory indoor air quality. Finally, the system must be flexible to handle varied research activities and be efficient as laboratory hood systems can be very costly to install, operate and maintain. The benefits of a highly effective laboratory ventilation system are safe environments for working with a variety of hazardous materials and healthy productive environments conducive to achieving research objectives at the lowest possible operating costs.

Realizing the benefits of a highly effective laboratory hood system can only be achieved by addressing the numerous factors affecting performance. Factors associated with the design of the hood, design and operation of the ventilation systems and design of the laboratory must be identified and alleviated prior to use of the hoods. A recent commissioning project undertaken to ensure proper performance of the newly installed laboratory hoods at the U.S. EPA Administration and Research Building in RTP, NC indicated a variety of problems with hood installation, design of the laboratories and operation of the variable air volume, ventilation systems. This paper describes the factors affecting performance of the laboratory hoods, test methods used to identify problems and lessons learned to help minimize problems with future installations and renovations.

Biographies:

Not available at this time.