Laboratory fume hoods serve to control exposure to toxic, offensive or
flammable vapors, gases and aerosols. Fume hoods are the primary method
of exposure control in the laboratory. The laboratory fume hood is a
type of local exhaust ventilation system (engineering control). A
typical fume hood is a cabinet with a moveable front sash (window) made
out of safety glass. A properly used and properly functioning fume hood
exhausts hazardous gases, dusts, mists, and vapors from a confined
location and helps protect workers from inhalation exposure.