Ventilation Systems Buyer’s Guide

Laboratory ventilation systems are critical components designed to maintain safe, efficient, and controlled environments for scientific research and experimentation. These systems regulate airflow to minimize exposure to hazardous chemicals, biological agents, and airborne contaminants, ensuring the safety of personnel and the integrity of experiments. Ventilation systems are tailored to meet the unique requirements of each laboratory, incorporating advanced technologies such as variable air volume (VAV) controls, high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration, and energy recovery mechanisms. They adhere to stringent safety standards and guidelines, such as those set by OSHA and ASHRAE, to ensure compliance and environmental sustainability. Modern systems also emphasize energy efficiency, balancing safety and operational cost-effectiveness while contributing to sustainable laboratory practices.

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5 Questions to Ask When Purchasing Ventilation Systems

1. What experience does your team have in designing ventilation systems for laboratories with specialized requirements, such as chemical, biological, or cleanroom environments?

2. How do you ensure that the ventilation system meets regulatory standards, such as ASHRAE 110 and OSHA guidelines, for airflow, containment, and air quality?

3. What strategies do you implement to optimize energy efficiency while maintaining safety and operational performance?

4. How do your systems minimize noise, turbulence, and vibration to ensure a stable and quiet working environment for researchers?

5. What filtration and airflow control technologies do you recommend to prevent cross-contamination and ensure consistent environmental conditions

Tips for Purchasing Ventilation Systems

When working with lab ventilation system vendors, careful consideration is essential to ensure safety, compliance, and operational efficiency. Vendors should demonstrate expertise in designing systems tailored to the specific needs of laboratory environments, including the handling of hazardous substances and maintaining air quality. They must also adhere to strict regulatory standards, such as OSHA and ASHRAE guidelines, to ensure the safety of personnel and the integrity of experimental results. A commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency is equally important, reflecting the growing emphasis on environmental responsibility in laboratory operations.

Leading Ventilation Systems Vendors to Consider

When selecting a laboratory ventilation system vendor, prioritize those with extensive experience and a proven track record in designing systems for specialized laboratory environments. Seek recommendations from lab managers and safety officers who have firsthand experience with reliable ventilation solutions that meet stringent safety and regulatory standards. Ensure the vendor offers comprehensive support, including system customization, installation, and ongoing maintenance, to guarantee optimal performance and compliance with industry guidelines such as ASHRAE 110 and OSHA standards.

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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

1. What application will you be using the unit for? Is a fume hood sufficient or will you require a BSC?
2. What capacity do you require? For example, do you require more than one BSC to accommodate all your experimental needs?
3. How frequently will your hood be used? Would an energy efficient model help you save on energy costs? 
4.  What considerations do you need to make for your lab members? For example, do you require an ADA compliant or accessible hood?
5. 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

Click here for a list of Fume Hoods Manufacturers

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