Does That Lab Really Need An Explosion-Proof Fume Hood?

By Luke Savage, LEED Green Associate, Sales Engineer, Labconco Corporation

We receive many requests from customers for explosion-proof (EP) fume hoods. Customers often think that if they are working with a flammable chemical they automatically need an EP hood. In reality, only a small percentage of customers really need EP fume hoods.

Determining whether you need an explosion-proof (EP) fume hood may seem like a daunting task. Really, there are just a few things to consider in determining if an EP hood is needed for your application.

A common misunderstanding of EP hoods is that they are designed to contain an explosion. Actually, most manufacturers would define an EP hood as one that is modified to eliminate spark potential outside the fume hood, and consequently reduce the chances of igniting a flammable atmosphere. EP hoods are not designed to contain explosions.