Table of Contents

• How to Maintain the School Chemistry Lab Equipment?
  • • Glassware
    • Additional Equipment
• How to Maintain the School Chemistry Lab Furniture?
  • Choice of School Chemistry Lab Worktop for your Lab Furniture
    • Granite Worktops
    • Epoxy Resin Worktops
    • Phenolic Resin Worktops
    • Stainless Steel Worktops
    • Chemical Resistant Laminate Worktops
    • Wood Worktops
    • Trespa Worktops
    • PVC Laminate Worktops
  • Work Surface Maintenance
  • Storage Guidelines
  • Furniture and Lab Layout
  • Gas and Electricity Safety
  • Hygiene and Waste Disposal
• Must Have Safety Equipment for Maintaining the School Chemistry Lab 
• Bonus Tips for School Chemistry Lab Management 
• General Safety Practices Essential to Maintain the School Chemistry Lab

School Administrators, Teachers and Authorities face a hard time trying to maintain the school chemistry lab. Here is the ultimate guide to running your school chemistry lab smoothly. Keep reading for cleaning, repair and safety guidelines.

How to Maintain the School Chemistry Lab Equipment?

Each piece of equipment in the chemistry lab needs to be maintained properly:

Glassware

1. Beaker – A simple container for mixing, stirring, and heating chemicals. Store glass beakers after rinsing with soap and water in the lower rack of a cabinet with glass doors. This prevents dust from falling into the beaker that can disrupt experiments. 
2. Conical Flask (Erlenmeyer Flask) – Used for mixing and heating solutions with reduced risk of spills. Store and clean flasks like beakers. 
3. Test Tubes – Small glass tubes used for holding, mixing, and heating substances. Store them in boxes with holders. Always keep the boxes in a well-ventilated closed place after cleaning, like a glass door almirah or cupboard. 

4. Test Tube Holder – A clamp used to hold test tubes during heating. Keep ample holders in the lab, so that all students have enough holders to use during experiments. If enough holders aren’t there, students resort to hacks like using paper holders as a makeshift or using the test tube as is during heating. This is very risky, because the paper can catch fire, or the reagents in the tube can boil out, harming the student. Hence, test tube holders are a must for every school chemistry lab. 
5. Measuring Cylinder (Graduated Cylinder) – Used to measure liquid volumes accurately. Store them along with glassware, ensure dust and humidity does not affect the equipment. 
6. Watch Glass – A concave glass used for evaporating small amounts of liquid or covering beakers. Store like other glassware. 

Additional Equipment

1. Bunsen Burner – A gas burner used for heating substances. Teach students to stop the gas supply after use. Ensure it is closed after experiments and beware of gas leaks. 
2. Wire Gauze – A mesh placed over a tripod stand to distribute heat evenly.
3. Crucible and Lid – A heat-resistant container for high-temperature heating. Prone to breakage upon falling, must be handled carefully. 
4. Evaporating Dish – Used to evaporate liquids and concentrate solutions.
5. Pipette – A tool for transferring precise amounts of liquid. Each student should be assigned a separate pipette for titration experiments. Mouth pipettes are unhygienic to share. 
6. Burette – A long graduated tube used in titration to measure liquid volume precisely. Teach students to handle the burette carefully. The long burette is often broken by students during handling. Fill the burette by keeping the burette and stand setup on the ground. Then place it on the benchtop to perform titration drop by drop. 
7. Dropper – A small tool for adding liquid dropwise. 
8. Glass Stirring Rod – Used for stirring solutions manually. Replace broken or cracked glass rods as they can cause injury. 
9. Funnel – Used for transferring liquids and filtering mixtures.
10. Filter Paper – A porous paper used to separate solids from liquids. Keep them inside packed boxes, to protect from dust and humidity. 
11. pH Paper – A strip of paper that changes color to indicate acidity or alkalinity. They must be kept absolutely dry.

You might be wondering how to deal with humidity in tropical countries. The best way is to store the apparatus or equipment for the school chemistry lab in a closed cupboard and then put silica gel in corners in the cupboard. It will absorb the moisture, keeping the apparatus dry, hence rust and bacteria free. 

How to Maintain the School Chemistry Lab Furniture?

Choice of School Chemistry Lab Worktop for your Lab Furniture

These are the options for Chemistry Lab Worktops that are most commonly used:

Granite Worktops

Granite worktops are useful in chemistry laboratories for schools because they can withstand the harshest acids. They are very easy to clean with 70 percent ethanol solution and are relatively affordable. 

Epoxy Resin Worktops

Epoxy resin worktops are highly durable and resistant to extreme conditions, making them ideal for laboratory use. They are heat-resistant, bacterial-resistant, chemical-resistant, and flame-retardant. Typically available in black, these worktops are seamless and monolithic when installed. They are heavy, with a thickness of one inch weighing 11 pounds per square foot. Epoxy resin is formed by mixing liquid compounds that harden in molds. These worktops are easy to clean and maintain, making them a preferred choice for fixed lab casework.

Phenolic Resin Worktops

Phenolic resin worktops are lightweight yet durable, weighing 7.2 pounds per square foot at one-inch thickness. They are made by layering recycled paper with phenolic resin and applying extreme heat to form a solid surface. These worktops resist bacteria, chemicals, moisture, and moderate to high corrosion. They can withstand continuous heat exposure up to 350°F. The surface comes in different colors, but the core is usually black. They are commonly used in biological, chemical, clinical, and analytical labs.

Stainless Steel Worktops

Stainless steel worktops offer the best hygienic and antimicrobial properties. They are made of chromium and nickel, making them highly resistant to rust, corrosion, and high temperatures (over 1500°F). These non-porous surfaces are commonly used in biomedical, pharmaceutical, food testing labs, and hospitals. They are long-lasting, easy to clean, and resistant to heat and chemicals, making them suitable for sterile environments.

Chemical Resistant Laminate Worktops

Chemical-resistant laminate worktops are made by coating phenolic resin onto kraft paper and covering it with a synthetic resin. These worktops resist chemicals and can handle heat exposure up to 275°F. They are used in labs that require non-contaminated surfaces, such as dental, pathology, urology, photographic darkrooms, and product testing labs. Their decorative surface makes them aesthetically appealing while maintaining high resistance to laboratory chemicals.

Wood Worktops

Wood worktops, typically made of rock maple, provide a sturdy and long-lasting surface. End-grain wood is used for strength by gluing smaller blocks together. These worktops have poor moisture and bacterial resistance but offer a warm and rich appearance. They are primarily used in mechanical labs where aesthetics and durability are essential.

Trespa Worktops

Trespa worktops are highly versatile and suitable for various laboratory applications. Made using reinforced natural fibers and thermosetting resins bonded under high pressure, they are impact-resistant, moisture-resistant, and chemical-resistant. They are also scratch-resistant, easy to clean, and durable. Trespa worktops are commonly used in pharmaceutical laboratories.

PVC Laminate Worktops

PVC laminate worktops are made by compressing polyvinyl chloride layers under extreme pressure. They offer excellent chemical resistance, moisture resistance, and durability, making them ideal for high-traffic laboratory environments. These worktops are also cost-effective and low maintenance, requiring only mild cleaning agents. They provide various design options, from monochromatic to multicolored finishes, making them suitable for different lab settings. PVC laminate is heat-resistant and impact-resistant, ensuring longevity in demanding lab conditions.

To maintain the school chemistry lab furniture, follow these principles:

Work Surface Maintenance

• Use PVC worktops for acid-based experiments; avoid wooden benches.
• Clean spills carefully:
  • Acid spills – Neutralize with sodium bicarbonate, then clean with water.
  • Ammonia spills – Rinse with water and ensure proper ventilation.
  • Use a spill pad and mop the area thoroughly.

Storage Guidelines

• Store concentrated acids in separate sections of the lab.
• Kipp’s apparatus must be housed in a separate chamber to contain fumes.
• Use separate cabinets with glass doors for:
  • Glass beakers
  • Plastic containers
  • Holders for beakers and test tubes
• Separate solutions and dry chemicals in designated storage areas.
• Hazardous chemicals should be stored away from workbenches.
• Generic chemicals should be labelled and stored at eye level for easy access.

Furniture and Lab Layout

• Ergonomically placed furniture for easy navigation.
• Separate wet and dry areas to prevent cross-contamination.
• Work areas and storage areas must be separate – do not store items in workspaces.
• Ensure clear pathways for movement between workstations and storage areas.
• No sharp edges on furniture to prevent injuries.
• Adequate space for students to move safely.

Gas and Electricity Safety

• Place gas and electricity pipelines along lab sides to prevent obstruction.
• Regularly inspect gas pipelines for leaks and repair if needed.
• Prevent sharp objects from damaging gas and electricity lines.

Hygiene and Waste Disposal

• Regularly clean lab worktops and benches.
• Gloves and waste disposal units must be placed separately from work areas.

This checklist ensures the lab remains safe, clean, and efficiently organized for both students and teachers.

Must Have Safety Equipment for Maintaining the School Chemistry Lab

To maintain the school chemistry lab, fit this safety equipment in place:

• Eye wash stations
• Safety showers
• Fire extinguishers
• First aid kits
• Chemical fume hoods
• Fire blankets
• Other necessary equipment based on the experiments conducted

Bonus Tips for School Chemistry Lab Management

1. Train Personnel – Teachers and lab supervisors must be trained to operate safety equipment effectively in emergencies.

2. Provide Ample Equipment
   • Ensure enough equipment is available for all students to complete experiments.
   • Purchase extra materials to account for potential accidents.
3. Ensure Proper Lighting
   • Maintain sufficient artificial and natural lighting for safe and accurate experiments.
   • Choose a lab location with windows to improve visibility and expand experimental possibilities.
4. Make Sufficient Storage Available
   • Provide adequate storage to keep equipment organized and accessible.
   • Prevent clutter and minimize safety risks by planning an efficient storage system.
5. Ensure Ventilation
   • Install a ventilation system to remove contaminated air and ensure a fresh airflow.
   • Protect students from exposure to hazardous chemicals and gases.
6. Facilitate Flexibility
   • Design the lab to accommodate different scientific disciplines and varying class sizes.
   • Use lightweight, non-fixed furniture to allow easy reconfiguration.
7. Create Clear Avenues for Movement
   • Design the lab with clear pathways for teachers to assist students effectively.
   • Keep exits and safety systems unobstructed for quick access during emergencies.
8. Incorporate Engaging Design
   • Make the lab visually appealing with bright colors and educational imagery.
   • Foster student interest in science through a stimulating and enjoyable environment. 

Contact Labkafe’s Lab Experts for custom design panels to make your lab spaces more interesting. 

General Safety Practices Essential to Maintain the School Chemistry Lab

When deciding protocols to maintain the school chemistry lab, ensure these safety precautions are taken:

1. Wear Safety Goggles – Department-approved safety goggles must be worn at all times. Glasses and contact lenses are not acceptable.
2. No Food or Drinks – Food and drinks are prohibited in the lab as they may pick up toxic chemicals.
3. Avoid Inhaling Fumes – Use fume hoods for dangerous or irritating chemicals. Waft odors toward your nose with your hand.
4. Do Not Taste Chemicals – Some chemicals are highly corrosive and toxic even in small amounts.
5. No Unauthorized Experiments – Only perform approved experiments under an instructor’s supervision.
6. Do Not Remove Lab Items – Removing chemicals, glassware, or equipment from the lab is illegal.
7. Label All Containers – Clearly label all containers to identify their contents.
8. Do Not Return Chemicals to Bottles – Once removed, a reagent should not be returned. Use clean, dry spatulas and take only the required amount.
9. Keep Chemicals in Designated Areas – Do not move original containers to your benchtop.
10. Handle Hot Objects with Care – Use beaker tongs for hot containers. Burns are common, so be cautious with heated objects.
11. Rinse Chemical Spills Immediately – Wash affected skin with large amounts of water.
12. Dispose of Broken Glassware Properly – Place broken glass in the designated crock and get a replacement from the instructor.
13. Follow Waste Disposal Guidelines – Dispose of chemicals as instructed. Some liquids may go down the sink with water, while others require designated waste containers.
14. Report Accidents Immediately – Inform the instructor about all accidents.
15. Know Emergency Equipment Locations – Locate and learn how to use the safety shower, fire extinguisher, eye-wash fountain, fire blanket, and fire exit.

Get in touch with our lab experts today!

The post Step by Step Guide to Maintain the School Chemistry Lab  appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

• Lab Activities and Purpose
• Lab Location and Accessibility
• Stakeholder Expectations and Needs
• Adaptability of the Workspace
• Conclusion

Design considerations must be kept in mind when designing lab furniture. Good lab design helps workers navigate the lab easily, improves their efficiency, and allows them to work worry-free in the lab environment. Poor lab design can lead to inefficient storage of components, poor space utilization, and a subpar working experience for lab users. 

Lab Activities and Purpose

A laboratory is more than just a workspace; it is a center for research, testing, and innovation. The lab’s purpose determines its design, equipment, and workflow. To ensure an efficient and functional setup, it is crucial to:

• Collaborate with Experts: Engaging with the principal investigator, scientists, and lab technicians ensures the space meets research and operational needs.
• Involve All Stakeholders: Input from researchers, facility managers, and safety officers ensures a well-rounded design approach.
• Prioritize Flexibility: Research evolves, so the lab should be adaptable to new technologies, methodologies, and equipment.

By considering these factors early in the planning stage, the laboratory can be designed to support efficient workflows, maximize productivity, and accommodate future needs.

Lab Location and Accessibility

The location and layout of a laboratory directly impact its efficiency, safety, and usability. Key considerations include:

• Space Availability & Workflow: The site must provide adequate space for operations, storage, and expansion while allowing a logical workflow that reduces inefficiencies.
• Drainage & Utilities: Proper drainage, plumbing, electrical access, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems must be planned according to lab needs.
• Equipment & Furniture Placement: The arrangement should ensure ease of access, maintenance, and compliance with industry standards.
• Stakeholder Involvement: Scientists, engineers, and facility managers must be part of the location and layout discussions to ensure all operational needs are met.

Selecting the right location and planning a smart layout ensure that the lab remains functional, safe, and scalable for future developments.

Stakeholder Expectations and Needs

Understanding and addressing stakeholder requirements is vital for a successful lab design. Different perspectives help create a more inclusive and effective workspace. Key expectations include:

Safety & Compliance: Lab managers and regulatory authorities prioritize adherence to safety codes, proper ventilation, and emergency preparedness (fire exits, safety showers, etc.).

Functionality & Efficiency: Researchers require ergonomic workspaces, accessible equipment, and an organized layout that minimizes movement and maximizes productivity.

Material Durability & Suitability: Stakeholders must select materials that meet lab-specific needs:

• Stainless Steel: Corrosion-resistant, ideal for sterile environments.
• Epoxy Resin: Resistant to chemicals, heat, and moisture.
• Phenolic Resin: Durable, non-porous, and scratch-resistant.
• ESD Laminate: Essential for electrostatic-sensitive environments.
• Plastic Laminate: Cost-effective for non-chemical labs.
• Wood/Maple Block: Aesthetic but requires high maintenance.

When considering design considerations for lab furniture, it is essential to choose materials that align with safety regulations, durability requirements, and specific lab applications. Incorporating feedback from all stakeholders ensures the lab design is efficient, safe, and tailored to its intended purpose.

Adaptability of the Workspace

Laboratory needs evolve over time, making adaptability a crucial factor in design. To ensure long-term usability, labs should focus on:

• Modular & Flexible Furniture: Workbenches, storage units, and seating should be easy to reconfigure to accommodate new projects and technologies.
• Zoning for Safety: Hazardous areas must be clearly designated to comply with safety regulations and prevent contamination.
• Technology Integration: Workspaces should accommodate computers, instruments, and data systems, with proper cable management and power access.
• Ergonomics & Comfort: Adjustable lab furniture minimizes strain on researchers, improving efficiency and reducing injury risks.
• Sustainability & Environmental Considerations: Using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions helps reduce the lab’s environmental footprint.

Conclusion

A key aspect of design considerations for lab furniture is ensuring that the workspace remains adaptable to evolving research needs. By incorporating modular solutions and ergonomic designs, laboratories can optimize research productivity, maintain compliance, and ensure long-term sustainability.

For lab design with considerations, you can contact us here.

The post Design Considerations for Lab Furniture You Must Know appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

The specifications of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) mandate the establishment of a composite science lab, with the following guidelines:

• Chapter 4 of NEP 2020 emphasizes experiential learning at all stages of science education to ensure holistic, integrated, and engaging learning.
• Chapter 7, Para 7.5 of NEP 2020 highlights the need for well-equipped science laboratories to strengthen science education.
• Para 12.1 of NEP 2020 stresses that effective learning requires an engaging curriculum, continuous formative assessment, and comprehensive student support.

The specifics of the composite science lab include:

• Schools can establish a single Composite Skill Lab of 600 sq ft or two separate labs of 400 sq ft each.
• A single lab caters to classes 6-12, while two labs can divide classes into 6-10 and 11-12.
• New CBSE schools must set up these labs to obtain affiliation.
• Existing CBSE schools have three years to comply with the lab setup requirement.
• Labs must include all essential machinery and tools necessary for teaching relevant skills.

Model of the composite science lab by CBSE. Get your FREE lab plan with our composite science lab package today!

The objectives and outcomes of setting up the composite science lab package are:

• Understand concepts, principles, theories, and laws of the physical world appropriate to cognitive development stages.
• Acquire and apply scientific methods such as observation, questioning, planning investigations, and data analysis.
• Conduct experiments, including quantitative measurements, to support scientific understanding.
• Cultivate scientific temper, including objectivity, critical thinking, and freedom from fear or prejudice.
• Foster natural curiosity, creativity, and an aesthetic appreciation of science.

Download the detailed list of Composite Science Lab Apparatus for FREE.

Each and every component is fulfilled by the Labkafe Composite Science Lab Package.

The Labkafe composite science lab package incorporates all the elements mandated by the CBSE board. To set up your own CBSE composite science lab, download the apparatus list for FREE by filling up the form. For any doubts, feel free to schedule a FREE lab consultation with our lab experts!

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Dry lab practices originated from the need to streamline labor-intensive research. They aim to minimize the number of active cases or samples processed on the wet lab bench, reducing the required man-hours to achieve the desired results.

The debate, however, is whether the dry lab produces better results. Is it as good as wet lab research, and which is more difficult to perform?

Integrated Wet Lab and Dry Lab

The human race conducts scientific research to achieve results that are beneficial for them. With this in mind, researchers might benefit from a more holistic approach that integrates both dry and wet lab practices, often in that particular order. Dry lab techniques have developed to integrate into wet lab protocols. Both complement each other to create streamlined protocols.

Researchers use dry lab techniques to eliminate junk samples. After this wet lab tools are used. Wet lab techniques finally render the required result, indicating what the researcher wants to know.

Why does lab design matter?

Lab design has a crucial role to play in labs that interconnect dry and wet labs. Therefore, it is crucial to plan the lab setup so researchers can move seamlessly from one platform to another. Often, labs integrate dry and wet lab applications in the same floor space or the same lab setup. Dry lab research often takes place in planned areas with desks and chairs in the laboratory. This is separate from the space used to store reagents and conduct experiments. These might cause harm to the computers or machines used for dry lab research.

At Labkafe, our experts create a customized lab plan that suits your research. With this, you can effectively maneuver between dry and wet lab exercises, thereby minimizing any hassle that might arise due to interdisciplinary research practices. Contact our lab experts for a free lab planning consultation to understand how you can create a research space suited uniquely to your needs.

Role of Lab Design in Wet Lab and Dry Lab

Wet labs deal with liquids, biological specimens, and hazardous chemicals. These spaces are separate from the computation and engineering facilities in the dry lab. Supercomputers and next-generation sequencing facilities often require dedicated rooms or floors, similar to electron microscopes and mass spectrometers. However, most data processing occurs on high-performance laptops or desktops located closer to and integrated with wet lab facilities. This arrangement minimizes time lost when switching between tasks.

Lab safety in Lab Setups

Include sufficient eyewash stations, emergency showers, and fume hoods to deal with contingencies. We keep occupational safety standards in mind. Waste management is another critical component of safety. Always plan dedicated waste storage and disposal facilities.

Separate spaces accommodate heavy dry lab equipment, while electricity and water are available for emergencies. To prevent integrated circuits from malfunctioning due to moisture, control humidity levels. Include emergency fire and safety equipment to address risks associated with high-voltage electricity. Additionally, design the furniture to absorb and dissipate static electricity and heat effectively.

Customized lab design solutions

The equipment must not vibrate or resonate with the structures they rest on, as this causes faster wear and tear. Incorporate flexibility in the design to address this. Allow wet labs to be converted into dry labs and vice versa.

This provides unparalleled flexibility when planning and implementing the setup and performing experiments. An interesting example of this flexibility is how 3D printers, once occupying entire rooms, are now available in benchtop versions.

This flexibility requires the advice of experts for effective implementation. At Labkafe, our design experts will guide you through a seamless experience of planning your brand-new integrated lab. This will ensure that both dry and wet labs are placed on the same pedestal. Contact our lab experts for a free lab planning consultation today!

The post Wet Lab and Dry Lab- One Stop Design Solutions appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

Building a Composite Science Lab addresses the gap in traditional learning in India, in addition to emphasizing hands-on, practical application. While nations like the United States, Japan, and South Korea boast skill training rates of 52%, 80%, and 96%, respectively, only 2.7% of India’s workforce has formal skill training.

Because these labs are designed for students from Classes 6 to 12, these labs must align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE). Therefore, the lab promotes interdisciplinary learning, collaborative education, and the use of technology to formulate hypotheses, conduct experiments, and analyze data.

Additionally, beyond academics, the lab incorporates artificial intelligence, machine learning, programming, and robotics kits, enabling students to explore concepts like self-driving cars and facial recognition. Ready-to-use plug-and-play kits simplify the process. Additionally, the mandate provides for teacher training, ensuring that the new generation of teachers are adept at handling and imparting cutting-edge knowledge, tools and resources for maximum student benefit.  

Importance of Composite Science Labs

Skill labs prepare students for real-world problem-solving. Hence, they foster intelligence, character, and creativity through experiential learning. Students not only perform experiments but also develop and defend their conclusions, building confidence and critical thinking skills.

Requirements for Building a Composite Science Lab

According to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), a well-equipped lab requires multiple apparatus, some of them are listed below:

1. Space and Infrastructure:
   • A 600 sq. ft. lab with 40 seating facilities.
   • Demonstration table with a sink and water tap.
   • Eight sinks with running water.
   • Notice board for lab rules, activities, and timetables.
   • Proper storage with cupboards to keep consumables and non-consumables dust- and vermin-free.
   • Safe storage for flammable chemicals.
2. Safety Measures:
   • Waste bins for proper waste management.
   • Exhaust systems for toxic chemicals.
   • Fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and a first-aid kit.
3. Basic Lab Equipment:
   • Physics: Optical bench, spring balance, magnetic compass, and prism.
   • Chemistry: Bunsen burners, conical flasks, periodic table models, and indicators like litmus paper.
   • Biology: Specimens of plants and microorganisms, in addition to human organ models, and microscopes.

Floor plan model for Composite Science Lab by the CBSE (Source)

Challenges in Building a Composite Science Lab

Building a composite science lab can be challenging due to multiple factors:

• Firstly, there is a lack of awareness regarding the required equipment and furniture
• It is difficult to source reliable suppliers, and
• Coordinate interdisciplinary requirements.
• Additionally, incorporating emerging technologies like robotics, coding, and AI requires adaptability and tailored expertise.

Composite Science Lab by Labkafe

Labkafe provides fully customizable packages for Composite Skill Labs. These labs are tailored to CBSE requirements, in addition to being flexible and customizable according to the requirements of the school. Hence, the kits are designed for seamless integration into the physics, chemistry, and biology laboratory. We provide both complete lab packages, and customized lists, as per the needs of the organization. 

Here’s a subject-wise list of some of the most sought-after items.

Physics Lab Equipment:

• Spring balance, voltmeter, ammeter, resistance boxes.
• Concave and convex mirrors and lenses.

Chemistry Lab Equipment:

• Test tubes, beakers, and conical flasks.
• Kipp’s apparatus and periodic table models.
• Indicators like litmus and methyl orange.

Biology Lab Equipment:

• Models of human organs (brain, eye, heart, etc.).
• Prepared slides, microscopes, and staining solutions.
• Specimens of plants and microorganisms.

Labkafe ensures all consumables and non-consumables meet CBSE standards, additionally providing turnkey solutions with robust support for installation, training, and maintenance. Contact our lab experts for a free, customized school lab plan today!

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Fields Requiring Composite Skill Lab in Enhancing Learning

1. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

Why Do They Need It?

The rapid advancements in STEM fields demand that students not only understand theoretical concepts but also engage in practical, hands-on learning. Therefore, Composite Skill Labs equipped with robotics kits, coding software, 3D printers, and electronic tools which provide students with the opportunity to bring their classroom lessons to life are a must.

Benefits

Students can build and program robots, design 3D models, and experiment with circuits, thereby developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovative skills.

Composite skill lab (creative visualization)

2. Arts and Design

Why They Need It

The role of a skill lab in enhancing learning is undeniable. Creativity is as important as technical knowledge in today’s world. Arts and Design fields such as graphic design, photography, music production, and filmmaking thrive in environments where students have access to the right tools and technologies.

Benefits

Composite Skill Labs enable students to explore their artistic talents and technical skills simultaneously, working on projects like digital art, filmmaking, and music composition, thus preparing them for careers in creative industries.

3. Vocational Skill Lab in Enhancing Learning

Why They Need It

The importance of vocational training in carpentry, plumbing, electrical wiring, and similar trades cannot be overstated, especially for students aiming for careers in these areas. 

Benefits

Composite Skill Labs provide the perfect setting for hands-on learning in these fields, therefore allowing students to practice and perfect their skills in a safe and controlled environment, which is crucial for their future job readiness.

4. Entrepreneurship

Why They Need It

Entrepreneurship education requires a unique environment where students can brainstorm, prototype, and develop business ideas. 

Benefits

In a Composite Skill Lab, students can access mentorship, market research tools, and collaborative spaces that are essential for nurturing entrepreneurial skills. Hence, activities like developing business plans, creating prototypes, and pitching ideas help in building a strong foundation for future business leaders.

5. Skill Labs Enhancing Learning in Health and Wellness

Why They Need It

Understanding health and wellness is vital for students, both personally and professionally. Whether it’s learning about nutrition, fitness, or mental health, practical experience in these areas is invaluable.

Benefits

Composite Skill Labs can be used to teach students how to prepare healthy meals, design fitness programs, and practice mindfulness. Therefore, labs also offer training in first aid, which is a crucial life skill.

6. Environmental Science and Sustainability

Why They Need It

As the world grapples with environmental challenges, educating students about sustainability is more important than ever. 

Benefits

The Composite Skill Lab is enhancing learning by equipping students with the tools to conduct experiments and projects related to ecology, renewable energy, and conservation, therefore making them aware of tools needed in environmental science research. In summary, this hands-on approach encourages students to become proactive in finding solutions to environmental problems.

7. Digital Literacy and Media Skill Labs

Why They Need It

In the digital age, media literacy and the ability to navigate the online world are essential skills. Therefore, students must learn how to create and share digital content responsibly and effectively.

Benefits

Composite Skill Labs, focused on digital literacy and media, provides resources for students to produce podcasts, create websites, in addition to engagement in safe online communication. These skills are critical in preparing students for the digital workforce in addition to inculcating responsible online behavior.

School lab constructed by Labkafe

In essence, the introduction of Composite Skill Labs marks a significant step forward in the educational journey of CBSE schools, one that promises to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the 21st century.
Contact Labkafe’s team of experts for a free lab consultation for your schools.

The post How are Composite Skill Labs Enhancing Learning Across Multiple Disciplines? appeared first on Labkafe Blog.

The most prominent lab furniture, in any laboratory, is the lab workbench. Indeed, it forms the very foundation of all lab work. Test tubes and microscopes may be iconic about labs because of their application ‒ but without a lab bench, where will you operate them?

Acting as the primary lab furniture in most school, college and research laboratories, lab workbenches or lab tables are the biggest, heaviest, and most important objects in the room. They give support to all the experiments you do (except those that have to be done in a fume hood or don’t need a table). They provide a surface to do all your work, have sinks to wash apparatus and dispose of liquids, have utility connections that enable you to perform various experiments, have storage units to store the equipment ‒ and more. 

Uses of a Lab Workbench

A lab work desk is a versatile furniture enabling lab users to utilize it in a plethora of ways. Let’s look at them below:

1. Lab benches create the surfaces to perform various experiments on. This is where almost all the work in a lab is done. Unless the experiment is such that it cannot be done on a standard horizontal surface (like determining Young’s modulus), or have their own big machines, or must be done in safe workspaces like fume hood.
2. Lab benches are much more than just a glorified table. They have various attachments on top of them configured to the laboratory’s needs. For wet labs, a lab workbench will have reagent racks on top of the desk, and sinks to wash lab apparatus and dispose of liquids. For a dry lab, there will be electrical racers on top of the table. For electronics labs, the whole workbench doubles as a powerhouse of testing and diagnostic systems.
3. Lab tables will have various utility connections ‒ like gas, water, and electricity lines in-built. This enables you to draw on those utility systems as required for your experiment.
4. Laboratory desks often have lots of storage space underneath the table. You can use them to store the equipment and glassware, paperwork, and various doodads needed for work (from paper clips to duct tapes ‒ you never know!). Indeed, if it wasn’t for the under-storages in the lab workbenches, the lab would almost double in size just to store the various lab equipment, apparatus, and glassware it requires to function.

Types of Lab Workbenches

Depending upon the need, lab tables can be customized to suit many different needs. However, in general at the school level there’s only the following types of lab workbenches:

• Dry lab workbench
• Wet lab workbench
• Demo table
• Assistant’s table

Let’s look into the details, one by one.

Dry Lab Table

In the physics laboratory, you need lots of open surface area and electrical connections, that’s it. For this reason, the dry lab workbenches are basically flat tables with some storage underneath and an electrical raceway running through the midsection of the table top. Commonly, in an island-type table, the electrical raceway has four points, two facing each side.

Wet Lab Table

The chemistry and biology laboratories need a lot of support spaces but not that much table surface area. For this reason, a typical ‘wet lab’ table ‒ that is, a laboratory table on which you can expect working with lots of liquids ‒ will have at least one reagent rack to hold various bottles of reagents and other glassware. 

The chemistry lab sometimes has need of electric connection, so these reagent racks double up as electrical raceway connections as well. And the gas connection is given as two- or four-way valves on top of the table, with pipes extending each way.

Furthermore, since you will need to dispose of various chemicals and wash your glassware and plasticware, the wet lab bench will have at least one sink. Generally, the sink is of polypropylene material, so that chemicals don’t hurt it. 

As you may expect, sinks on wet lab tables have water faucets as well. Generally labkafe provides special three-prong taps with snouts to attach pipes ‒ but you may choose to take a more common faucet.

Demo Table

Also called the Teacher’s Table or Instructor’s Table, this small single-user table is handy for the lab instructor to demonstrate some experiment before the class. It can also double as a standard table for the teacher provided if the height is not an issue. Depending upon the lab type (wet or dry), it will have a sink or a single electrical raceway. It won’t have a reagent rack ‒ but it will have an under-storage module.

Assistant’s table

The lab assistant, if there is one, is given a rather simple table for his or her various menial work. This table is rather more like a normal table without any storage or tabletop fixtures ‒ however, that is totally optional and you can configure it anyway you wish. That’s the good thing about Labkafe’s lab workbenches ‒ they are completely customizable as per your needs.

Table Types Based on Placement

Lab tables have to be configured according to where they are going to be placed. While Labkafe lab furniture are very flexible and can be designed to fit almost any room, there are two configurations that most institutions prefer. They are:

Island Tables

These are rather large lab workbenches accommodating many users on both sides. They are generally meant to stand alone nearer to the center of the room. They can also be placed on the wall, side-wise, which is greatly suitable for long narrow rooms.

Island-type workbenches are generally 8 feet by 4 feet in size and 3 feet tall, enabling 3-4 students to work on each side on foot or on lab stools . They can be both for dry labs and wet labs. Whichever configuration they may have up top, they will have it on both sides. The under-storages of these tables also face both ways, enabling access to users at both sides of the table. 

Wall-Facing Tables

When you need to place your lab workbench flush against the wall so that the users all will face the wall, then what you need are wall-facing type lab benches. These are basically half of island types, having access and storage to only one side. The above-table configurations like reagent racks and electrical raceways will similarly be catering to one side only. 

The wall-facing type lab benches can be configured lengthwise as you wish and in around the corners as well. In general, each unit of such benches are as long and tall as the other type, but only 2.4 feet wide. These are great when you need to line your lab walls with lab tables, most efficiently using wall space. However, for wet labs, there will be a sink in the table taking up the workspace of one student.

Table Types Based on Construction

Although hard to spot from the outsides, lab workbenches can be built upon two types of frames. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages. They are:

C-type Frames

This is the sturdier among the two frames. It is basically an arrangement of tubes square or rectangular in cross-section. Looking from the side, the tube is arranged in a square-ish ‘C’ arrangement, thus the name. This frame extends the length, width and height of the table and is the sole load bearing member. It sits directly on the floor.

Everything else in the table gets support from the frame. The heavy table top sits directly on top of the frame (which forms a rectangle on the top). The storage modules hang from the C-frame. This is great since this allows space underneath the workbench, which can be easily cleaned or used to store flat material. What’s more, the modules themselves are easily alterable ‒ you can dismantle and place them in other locations, or add new modules etc.

The tubes are made by folding 2mm thick steel sheets and then powder coating it. The folds increase the tensile and compressive strength of the material tremendously, capable of upholding great amounts of weight and withstanding immense impact. In an island-type table, two C-frames come back-to-back to create an ‘I’ formation which is even stronger.

H-type Tables

These are lightweight and cheaper options if you need so. In this type of configuration, there is no central load-bearing member. Instead, the storage modules themselves (at least two needed) bear the full weight of the table. Since they are made from 1 mm thick CRCA sheet, they are not as strong as the C-frame solution. But they can be manufactured faster and cheaper.

Although we have to say, the H-frame tables do look better from the outside. Where the C-type tables have a more skeletal look, these look more well-covered and more solid. Additionally, they may have a skirting at the bottom, adding a bit of color to an otherwise bland-looking workspace.

The H-type tables do not have clearing space at the bottom, so that cannot be utilized or cleaned. They stand directly on the floor, or they have small pods to stand upon.

Lab Workbench Materials

The Body

There are two kinds of materials used in making the body of a lab workbench ‒ MDF and CRCA steel. MDF is basically engineered wood and it is not recommended for lab usage. It can get easily damaged, is destructible by fire, and gets weathered fast.

The other option, Labkafe choice, is CRCA (Cold-Rolled Close Annealed) steel ‒ the best choice for any heavy furniture manufacturing. It is stronger than standard furniture steel, is very resistant to general weathering, and is quite affordable. The surfaces are coated with anti-chemical powder coating, making them impervious to most chemical reactions.

The Table Top

Labkafe provides two kinds of table tops for lab workbenches, one more popular than the other. The common option is 18mm thick natural granite perfected with machine polish and a chemical-resistant coating. This is very heavy but it’s the most popular option.

The other option is the epoxy board top, which is much lighter in comparison and has a greater tensile strength ‒ but costs a motherlode more. They do look absolutely fine, though, with the ability to take various colors.

Note: When choosing a lab table, do note the nature of the table top. Most second-rate manufacturers use artificial granite and/or thin slabs (~10-12mm) ‒ both of which are actually a danger to the users. They are weak and prone to breaking unexpectedly.

Other Lab Tables

While the above are the descriptions of the most common lab workbenches, there exists other types of them as well. For example, there is the geography lab display table where various rock and mineral samples can be displayed. Or, there is the hexagonal math lab table with many drawers. Labkafe can satisfy the lab furniture needs of any school, college, company, or institutes ‒ however large or small or intricate they are.

Contact Us today for a Free Lab Design Consultation

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If you are doing your laboratory setup for the first time, read this article thoroughly to understand the different types of lab floorings and their advantages and disadvantages. But first, let’s look at the properties of the ideal lab flooring.

Properties of an Ideal Lab Flooring

Well above and beyond your basic cement or tiled floors, an ideal lab flooring must be able to withstand a lot of abuse. It must not only be strong enough to bear the weight of heavy lab furniture and storage solutions and machines but also be impervious to chemical and biological hazards. To be precise, lab floorings should have the following properties.

Solid Footing

Any lab floor is bound to experience frequent hurried pedestrian and cart traffic. As such, it should be quite durable and must not wear out with time. Also, the lab floor should have a good frictional surface that would be resistant to slip whether dry or wet. Providing an appropriate amount of traction while remaining solid and non-deteriorating over time is a big deal for any good lab flooring.

Chemical Resistance

This should go without saying, but most laboratories deal with a lot of chemical substances. Which is increased a hundredfold when it’s some sort of a chemistry laboratory. And where there are chemicals, there is spillage. It doesn’t have to be very strong acid or something to damage a normal flooring ‒ even normal detergent spilled on cement can damage it.

Don’t get misguided by an assumption of crew efficiency. That it can be wiped off fast is not good enough to resist the corrosive effects of a chemical spillage. It is critical to check any test data for the type of flooring you’re buying for your lab ‒ and match it with the concentrations of the chemicals you will be using in the lab. 

Lab Floor Finish

Lab floor finishes can be quite effective against chem spills ‒ but do mind which type you are getting. One type of lab floor finish acts as a sacrificial layer such that it reacts quickly with the chemical, thus neutralizing its corrosive nature. But it will have to be replaced immediately, of course. Another type of lab floor finish acts as a barrier between the spill and the flooring material, preventing any corrosion. But, if they ever get even a hairline crack due to other reasons, the spill will seep through them and slowly damage the floor below (and that can’t be wiped off).

Biohazard Resistance

Especially true for microbiology or virology laboratories, a lab flooring should also be impervious and neutralizing to biological elements like various microbes. Therefore, it should have some strong anti-microbial properties. It can also have bacteriostatic or antiseptic abilities, killing and preventing bacteria from reproducing.

Types of Lab Flooring

Now, to be factual, an ideal lab flooring with all of the above properties would be prohibitively expensive and be created with very specialized substances. But in general, there are three common types of lab floorings used in most schools, colleges, and research institutes. Let’s discuss them below.

1. Vinyl Sheet Flooring

Just like operating theaters, laboratory floorings may experience a lot of harmful or potentially damaging liquid spills. Vinyl sheet flooring is one of the very best defenses against this sort of situation. They provide the best protection against chemical agents and have decent anti-bacterial properties while being safe for hurried foot traffic in an affordable window. There is a great vinyl lab flooring from  Labkafe available as part of our laboratory furniture setup.

Vinyl floors come as completely smooth, without joints and seams to prevent any leakage or seepage. Furthermore, the composition of vinyl slows down and in some cases prevents the spread of fungi and bacteria. They are also anti-static so they can be used well in physics labs. Furthermore, vinyl flooring feels soft and warm to the foot, giving a good feeling while you work on it. Being mostly PVC, they are easy to clean and you can use strong detergents safely to remove hard stains and dangerous chemicals.

Whilst with all these advantages, vinyl flooring does have two letdowns. They are, as you may expect, not the cheapest flooring solution. Also, vinyl lab floorings are susceptible to fire damage.

2. Epoxy Lab Flooring

The epoxy resin forms a plastic-like surface when its component chemicals are mixed, and becomes one of the most inert materials mass-produced for regular work. Almost completely impervious to lab chemicals and dead to microbes, it forms the most dependable lab space surface.  However, they are also the most expensive of lab flooring solutions. 

Epoxy lab flooring is safe and durable to walk on and can withstand a lot of weight in small spaces. They are one of the most hygienic and sterile surfaces to be found in most school and college laboratories. They are very much resistant to skids and slips, and they do not allow any liquid or other stuff to seep underneath to touch the concrete bottom.

That being said, epoxy is susceptible to wear and tear. It wears out eventually and has to be replaced. The replacement process is not easy either, since the concrete surface underneath has to be completely clean and perfectly pristine. All of these make epoxy resin one of the most dependable but very expensive lab floorings. 

3. Sealed Concrete Flooring

This is the cheapest lab flooring solution available to you for building up your lab. For that reason, it is very popular in many industrial laboratories. Sealed concrete provides a very strong and durable surface that is moderately resistant to most chemicals used in labs in high volumes. Since it is sealed (if properly done), there is little to no chance of spillage seeping into the concrete. It also lasts the longest of time and is completely impervious to regular fire.

However, being cheap has its faults, as you can expect. Sealed concrete gets slippery when wet, leading to a lot of falling down and accidents. It is particularly cold and gets a dingy and moist feeling in a high-humidity atmosphere. Also, if the sealant breaks for any reason, then the concrete underneath becomes extremely vulnerable.

The Bottom Line

The question is of balance. How can you balance cost and safety perfectly? The epoxy is the best lab flooring ever used in civilian facilities. However, there is the sealed concrete which is very popular in the industrial labs because of its durability and cost-effectiveness ‒ but it is very less reliable. 

So far, vinyl lab flooring seems to be the best option being both easy on the pocket and impervious to chemical and biological hazards. Labkafe offers a premium vinyl lab flooring solution for all school college labs that is cost-effective, safe, and very durable. We offer this as a part of our lab furniture installation ‒ please WhatsApp Us or contact the sales team for further information.

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Have you ever wondered if your laboratory could look better than the bland, stiff place it is? It doesn’t have to be like that. What if you added some bright colors and some nice lab wallpapers to the lab walls? That would instantly change the whole mood of your practical room.

Few people think of a laboratory as a place of fun and enjoyment ‒ except those who find bliss in the experiments themselves. But Not all people are like that. Indeed, the practical section of the syllabus can be daunting to most students. A smelly old dark lab is not, repeat NOT a place of teaching!

So, how about slapping some bright, attractive wallpapers on the walls to brighten up the workspace? Laboratory wall decor is one of the very underrated art few indulge in. Of course, placing art in a room of science doesn’t seem to make sense at first ‒ but when you do it correctly, it becomes as delicious as a tropical cuisine, balancing opposite tastes beautifully.

However, that is easily said than done. Choosing a lab wallpaper is not a matter of joke and it takes some degree of patience and imagination. You need to mind the impact and the message it conveys to your pupils. Kids do love some bright colors and squiggly funny designs ‒ but the wallpaper or lab wall art needs to be bang on topic as well.

Remember These When Installing Lab Wallpaper

Start at the beginning

It is best to plan your lab space at the very beginning ‒ when you are constructing it. If it is a rental place, then you will be at least whitewashing the place, right? Imagine your completed lab at that time. At the time of design, carefully consider one wall you would want to keep mostly empty, very visible. This is the wall where the lab wallpaper will be installed.

In fact, Labkafe wallpapers are unique since they can be mounted on not only walls but also on the faces of the lab furniture . Turn that bland full-height cabinet face into a fun stress-free zone with some good wallpaper! Kids will love it when your lab furniture are wearing diagrams or formulas.

Take multiple choices

Don’t be stuck with one idea only. There have to be multiple options to choose from. Ask your lab setup supplier to provide multiple ideas for your chosen lab wall. Labkafe generally provides 3D models of the proposed lab design, so that you can see your lab almost in reality before it is built.

Think of the future

You would do well to think long term before installing your lab wallpapers. Would you like to change the wallpaper later? Maybe you’d like them to be placed elsewhere? These matters will factor a lot in your laboratory wall decor. If you want to change your wallpaper later, we can easily do it with the help of a heat gun.

Prime your wall

A proper lab wallpaper won’t get on any old surface. You have to prepare the wall for it. Make sure you prepare your wall with at least one coat of primer (or POP) before you apply the wallpaper. This is true for pretty much any wallpaper usage, not only in laboratories.

Mind the material

Take care ‒ lab wallpapers are not what you would generally expect as common wallpapers. Normal wallpapers used in domestic dwellings are made of actual paper ‒ woven or non-woven. Or they can be made from types of cloth. However, Labkafe’s laboratory wallpapers are very different. They are made from Eco-solvent vinyl with high-resolution print. 

There are multiple advantages of using this material on your lab walls. First of all, in a laboratory, the wall surfaces are highly susceptible to various kinds of damages ‒ scratches by kids or bumped by instruments, some chemical splashes, decomposition due to pungent fumes, and whatnot. This special vinyl resists a lot of those issues, going the distance with your lab. Cherry on top, they look the coolest and don’t cost as high too!

Pasting Method

You have three options to choose from when your lab setup supplier asks what kind of pasting method you want. They all have different usage and quality and price, so pay attention here.

1. With Glue: This is the cheapest and most common option, but the least durable as well. With time and corrosive effects, the glue tends to deteriorate and decompose, and the wallpaper may start peeling off as a result.
2. Self-adhesive: This is the best option by and large since you can stick it on any good surface. It costs slightly more than the previous but it’s well worth the buck. 
3. Sun Board: If your wall surface is not good, or can get soaked, then you have to use this option only. In this setup, we paste the wallpaper on a 3mm ‒ 5mm composite material board for extra protection, then we mount it on the wall. 

So, what are you waiting for? Decorate your lab space wall with some cute and bright wallpaper options today! Labkafe has a number of great wallpapers for various types of laboratories, for example, composite labs, physics labs, biology labs, chemistry labs, etc. These wallpapers are great for students in classes up to XII. Even your faculties will love such a bright and inspiring lab getup!

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A fume hood also called  “fume cupboard” or “fume closet” is a type of local ventilation that is made to control exposure to hazardous or toxic fumes, vapors, or dust.

There are two main types of Fume Hood, Ducted Fume hood, and Recirculating one which is the ductless Fume hood. 

The working principle of fume hood is the same for both the types of fume hood: Air is drawn in from the front which is the open side of the cabinet, either expelled outside the building or made safe through filtration and fed back into the room. So that users can be protected from hazardous fume & gases expelled during any experiment. Secondary functions of Fume Hood may include explosion protection, spill containment, and other necessary lab safety features. 

These are generally installed along the walls and are often fitted with infills above, to cover up the exhaust duct pipes. Because of their recessed shape, they are generally poorly lighted by the general room lighting, so many have internal lights with vapor-proof covers. The front is a sash window, usually in glass, able to move up and down on a counterbalance mechanism. On educational versions, the sides and sometimes the back of the unit is also glass, so that several pupils can look into a fume hood at once.

A general picture of Fume Hood may be as follows:

Now coming to the Fume Hoods, the two types are as follows:

1. Ducted Fume Hoods: Industrial processes use mostly these Fume Hoods. A large variety exists. In most designs, conditioned (i.e. heated or cooled) air is drawn from the lab space into the fume hood and then dispersed via ducts into the outside atmosphere.

The fume hood is only one part of the lab ventilation system. Because the recirculation of lab air to the rest of the facility is not permitted, air handling units serving the non-laboratory areas are kept segregated from the laboratory units.

2. Ductless Fume Hoods: These generally have a fan mounted on the top (soffit) of the hood, or beneath the worktop. Air is sucked through the front opening of the hood and through a filter, before passing through the fan and being fed back into the workplace. With a ductless fume hood, it is essential that the filter medium be able to remove the particular hazardous or noxious material being used.

A benefit of ductless fume hoods is that they are mobile, easy to install since they require no ductwork, and can be plugged into a 110 volt or 220-volt outlet.

In a survey (Ref 1.)of 247 lab professionals conducted in 2010, Lab Manager Magazine found that approximately 22% of fume hoods are ductless fume hoods. 

Do’s & Don’ts of using fume hood safely in a lab: 

Do’s of Using Fume Hood safely in a Lab

1. Do all work involving hazardous or volatile materials are inside a fume hood.
2. Check that the fume-hood is operating correctly before you start work. To check the airflow, use a strip of paper, tissue, or ribbon can be taped to the fume-hood sash.
3. Avoid cross drafts and disruptive air currents in front of the fume hood. Ensure that windows and doors near the fume-hoods are CLOSED.
4. Always keep work at least 15cm in from the opening of the fume hood.
5. Use the sash as a safety shield when boiling materials or conducting an experiment with reactive chemicals.
6. Always keep sash as low as possible. As the sash is lifted, flow is increased so that the face velocity of air over a given cross-section of the sash opening is constant. In summer especially, this will mean that hotter make up air is drawn into the lab.
7. When the fume hood is not in use, ensure that all materials are in sealed containers.
8. Connect all electrical devices outside of the hood to avoid sparks which may ignite a flammable or explosive chemical.
9. Prepare a plan of action in case of an emergency, such as a power failure, especially when using extremely hazardous chemicals or acids.

Don’ts of using fume hood safely in a  Lab

1. DO NOT place your face or head inside the hood. Keep hands out as much as possible.
2. DO NOT use a fume hood as a storage area, they should contain only working volumes of• DO NOT use fume hoods to vent or dispose of hazardous materials through air dilution.
3. DO NOT overcrowd or clutter the fume hood. Overcrowding creates vortices and dead spots. Vortices may cause hazardous material to flow back out of the fume hood causing exposure; dead spots may allow ignitable concentrations of flammable and combustible materials to accumulate; Large bulky equipment used in the hood will cause eddies.
4. DO NOT place equipment in the hood that stops the sash from closing. A safer local exhaust ventilation method may exist and should be pursued.
5. DO NOT modify fume hood or erect shelves in a fume hood for chemical or equipment storage.
6. DO NOT place power boards, or other spark-producing sources inside the hood.

How does a fume-hood work?

Fume-hoods draw air out of the rooms they are installed in. There needs to be an adequate volume of air available or the fume-hood will not be able to draw a sufficient volume of air to function properly. Where the room is small or there are a large number of fume-hoods an additional supply of air, other than the normal room ventilation, may be required. This additional air is known as the make-up air. If the make-up air supply is not adequate or the make-up air is switched off then the fume-hoods may not be able to achieve the required face velocity. This can cause fumes to escape into the laboratory. There are special fume hoods for perchloric acid and radioisotopes. Ensure that the appropriate hood is used for each specific reaction or process involving specific chemicals.

Hope this article helps while working with the Fume Hood. Happy Experimenting!

You may also check out our blog on COMMON SCHOOL SCIENCE LABORATORY EQUIPMENT AND THEIR USES

Reference: 

1. https://www.labmanager.com/?articles.view/articleNo/3857/article/Shopping-for-a-Fume-Hood–See-the-Survey-Results

Labkafe: Lab Equipment and lab Furniture Manufacturer

We are a School laboratory furniture and Lab equipment manufacturer and supplier. 

In laboratory furniture including Fume Hood, Lab Benches, Storage cabinets & Lab Pipeline connections, we first design the entire laboratory room keeping in mind the requirements and budget. Also, we take care of the complete designing and installation of laboratory furniture. 

In the lab equipment section, we have a wide range of glassware, chemicals, equipment, and other lab accessories. Most of them are available for order online on our website but some of them can be procured on demand.

If you have need:-

• laboratory equipment or lab furniture requirements for school
• composite lab equipment list for school
• Physics lab equipment list for school
• Chemistry lab equipment list for
• Biology lab equipment list for school
• Pharmacy lab equipment

do drop a message through chat or mail us at sales@labkafe.com or call +919147163562 and we’ll get in touch with you.

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