Biological Safety Cabinets, Fume Hoods, & Ventilation Purchasing Guide
5 Questions to ask when purchasing a BSC, fume hood, or ventilation unit
Air filtration solutions such as biological safety cabinets (BSCs), fume hoods, and ventilation are integral safety features in any lab, protecting workers from volatile solutions and air-borne hazards. Before purchasing an air filtration solution, it is most important to identify what specifications the unit requires for your application and to meet the needs of your lab.
5 Questions to ask when purchasing a BSC, fume hood, or ventilation unit
- What application will you be using the unit for? Is a fume hood sufficient or will you require a BSC?
- What capacity do you require? For example, do you require more than one BSC to accommodate all your experimental needs?
- How frequently will your hood be used? Would an energy efficient model help you save on energy costs?
- What considerations do you need to make for your lab members? For example, do you require an ADA compliant or accessible hood?
- Where should the hood be located in the lab so that the noise will not disrupt other workers and so people working in it are not in the way?
Purchasing Tip
BSCs, fume hoods, and other ventilation can be an energy sink for your lab. Purchasing new equipment is the perfect opportunity to address energy efficiency. For specific applications, ductless fume hoods can be an ideal energy-conserving option. Rather than external venting, these units recirculate air filtered through HEPA and/or carbon filters, saving energy. Consult with the manufacturer to determine whether a ductless fume hood is a good fit for your application.
Click here for a list of Biological Safety Cabinet Manufacturers