The Faculty of Science used Research Support Funds to fund renovations to a research lab. The relocated fume hoods were part of a minor renovation to accommodate research needs for a new faculty hire in the Department of Chemistry.
A fume hood's primary function is to protect users from inhaling hazardous fumes, vapors, dust, and gases by providing a ventilated enclosure. It contains and exhausts these airborne contaminants through an exhaust system, safeguarding laboratory personnel from toxic substances and providing a physical barrier against explosions or fires.
Replacing or upgrading fume hoods can have a significant impact on research projects. Modern fume hoods often offer improved airflow control, energy efficiency, and safety features, which can enhance the reliability and reproducibility of experimental results. For new faculty members, having access to functional and compliant fume hoods is essential for launching their research programs without delay. Conversely, delays in installation or inadequate ventilation infrastructure can hinder experimental timelines, affect grant deliverables, and limit the scope of research work that can be safely conducted. In this case, the timely relocation and installation of existing fume hoods ensured continuity of research activities and supported the onboarding of new talent within the department.