Laboratory fume hoods are the first defense to minimize chemical exposure to research workers. They are considered the primary means of protection from inhalation of hazardous vapors. It is, therefore, important that all potentially harmful chemical work be conducted inside a properly functioning fume hood.

While users have little control over a system which is already in place, they can greatly increase or decrease its effectiveness by the way the hood is used. The purpose of this training is to make those who use hoods aware of some of the factors which contribute to the effectiveness of a hood system.