FUME CUPBOARDS

DENIOS fume cupboards offer an effective way to maximise safety, with a practical design that provides unobstructed access when working with even large and heavy items. 

We offer the VARIO-Fume range of laboratory fume cupboards, developed by our experts to meet the needs of laboratories, production and maintenance environments. 

Integrated sinks and media connections can be included with our ducted fume cupboards as required, making our solution versatile and well-suited for compliance with workplace exposure limits (WELs). The ergonomic construction of our cupboards allows for easy use, while a range of construction materials provides a bespoke solution to your specific safety needs.

We offer custom configurations to suit specific applications, including meeting the standards defined by ATEX and COSHH.

Safety fume cupboards are vital protective equipment utilised across multiple industries and applications for the safe examination, analysis and mixing of hazardous materials. Some of the most common applications for our ducted and recirculating fume cupboards include the following:

• Scientific and research laboratories: Handling a broad range of different chemical substances is common in laboratory environments, requiring compliance with both COSHH and HSG258 for the control of airborne contaminants. 

• Universities and schools: Chemical usage ranges from basic demonstrations to advanced research facilities, making it essential to have safe and robust facilities in line with COSHH and CLEAPSS for the protection of students.

• Pharmaceutical and biotech companies: The specialised processes required in these industries make it vital to use bespoke fume cupboards that suit unique purposes while adhering to COSHH and DSEAR, where appropriate for flammable and explosive materials.

• Industrial manufacturing: Volatile chemicals and other hazardous substances are commonly used in industrial processes, requiring specific handling processes for high-risk materials that align with COSHH, DSEAR and PUWER for workplace safety.

• Hospitals and clinics: Pathology, histology and pharmacy applications require adherence to strict guidelines for the handling of high-risk pathogens and other materials, including meeting the standards defined by COSHH, HTM 03-01 and HTM 67.

Why Would I Need a Fume Cupboard?

Fume cupboards are essential equipment for any environment where high-risk, volatile or hazardous materials are handled, mixed or used in any capacity. As a critical safety control, fume cupboard usage and ongoing maintenance are requirements under COSHH as part of appropriate ventilation and worker protection measures. These measures protect employees against toxic fumes, carcinogens, heavy dust, gas release and splashing. 

If your workplace has processes for working with hazardous materials, pathogens or any other risky material, a VARIO-Fume fume cupboard is a suitable and compliant option. Our cabinets are designed to meet the rigorous safety standards across numerous industries and applications, with modular and customisable design elements to meet your specific requirements.

Key guidelines you may need to comply with for your fume cupboard include the following:

• COSHH: The UK's primary legislation requiring employers to assess and control employee exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace.

• HTM 67: NHS guidance covering the design, planning, specification and commissioning of laboratories in health sector buildings.

• DSEAR: UK legislation requiring employers to control the risks posed by flammable, explosive or otherwise dangerous substances in the workplace.

• CLEAPSS: A UK advisory body that provides safety guidance for science in schools and colleges. 

• EN 14175: The standard governing the design, construction, performance and testing of ducted fume cupboards.

All DENIOS fume cupboards are designed in accordance with current regulations, including EN 14175 and COSHH. To meet ongoing safety and performance standards, we also support our customers with servicing options, including airflow testing and filter replacement schedules.

Key safety and performance considerations:

Face velocity: the speed at which air moves through the hood or filter in your fume cupboard. A consistent airflow is critical for preventing toxic fumes and the build-up of dangerous airborne substances by ensuring air moves through at the correct velocity. DENIOS systems are designed to achieve safe, stable face velocities while maintaining user comfort.

Airflow: Airflow can be either constant or variable to match the specific requirements of your application and different use cases. Higher airflow can be utilised for specific materials, while lower airflow may be more appropriate for delicate materials.

Maintenance and testing: Under COSHH Reg 9, it is a legal requirement that all fume cupboards are examined at least every 14 months to ensure they are operating correctly and protecting your employees. DENIOS offers service plans to support inspection, airflow validation and filter management.