Fume Extraction Equipment Systems

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The University of Adelaide laboratory fume cupboards are one of the most important apparatus used to protect laboratory personnel from exposure to the hazardous chemicals and agents used in the laboratory.  They can provide an effective backup safety device for the containment and exhaust of toxic, offensive or flammable materials when the containment of an experiment or procedure fails and vapours or dusts escape from the equipment in use.  The reliable and effective operation of the fume cupboard systems is essential for the Occupational Health and Safety of laboratory operators.

In 2003 the Property Services developed and established a unique and specialised contract for Fume Cupboard Inspection, Testing, Maintenance and Repair, known as FEES, “Fume Extraction Equipment Systems”. 

The annual maintenance and smoke/velocity testing of all fume cupboards was completed in December 2006 in accordance with AS/ANZ 2243.8 with all cupboards subsequently displaying current test labels. 

The six monthly fume cupboard compliance testing assessment is now in progress and is expected to be completed by July 2007. 

Under the Capital Management Plan several major packages - fume cupboard upgrade contracts are rolling out, namely:

• Earth Environmental Sciences (EES):  Mawson Building, Room B29d – completion expected 16th March 2007
• Physics Department:  Physics Building, Room G41 – completion expected 31st May 2007
• Earth Environmental Sciences (EES):  Mawson Building, Room B13b – completion expected 31st July 2007
• Also in design phase is the current planning for Engineering North, Room 215  fume cupboard upgrade.  Design and construction upgrade of the fume cupboard is expected to be completed by 30th June 2007.