Home

  • Home
    • » e-Newsletters

Update: ANSI/AIHA standards on lab ventilation

Lab Safety Advisor, January 10, 2006

The ANSI/AIHA Z9.5-2003 standard on lab ventilation has been completely revised since it was last issued in 1992. It has several new sections and more than 500 specific requirements. It is presented in a useful, two-column format with the requirements on the left and the explanations of "how to comply" on the right. This particular standard does not specify a hood face velocity to track hood performance; however, the CAP checklist still requires a velocity at a minimum of 100 fpm. The face velocity must be sufficient for capture and containment of hazardous chemicals. Below are a few of the requirements in the new standard:

  • Hoods must be certified annually and the certification date posted on the hood
  • Hood users shall be trained in proper operation
  • Hoods cannot be used unless it is verified they are working
  • Records shall be maintained for all inspections and maintenance
  • Lab hood exhaust systems shall not be classified as hazardous exhaust systems

      Visit the AHIA site to download the complete standard, which is available for about $50.
    • Most Popular