Engineering controls are the first line of defense for minimizing or eliminating potential exposure to biological, chemical, and physical hazards in the laboratory setting. Many times, engineering controls are unique to specific laboratory applications.
Examples of commonly found engineering controls in a laboratory setting include chemical fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, glove boxes, and ventilated storage cabinets.
Laboratory Engineering Control Topics
Local exhaust ventilation is the primary method used to control inhalation exposures to hazardous substances. The chemical fume hood is the most common local exhaust method used in laboratories at RPI.
Biological safety cabinets (BSCs) are used to protect lab members, materials and the environment from exposure to biohazards and cross contamination during routine procedures through a simple system of airflow and filters. BSCs are used whenever activities using potentially infectious biological material might generate droplets, splashes or aerosols.
A glove box is a sealed laboratory enclosure designed to allow safe handling of materials that are hazardous, air-sensitive, or moisture-sensitive while protecting both the user and the environment. It is equipped with built-in gloves that allow manipulation of materials without direct contact and is typically maintained under a controlled atmosphere, such as an inert gas (e.g., nitrogen or argon) or negative pressure for toxic substances. Glove boxes are commonly used to prevent contamination, oxidation, or exposure.
Gas Cabinets
A gas cabinet is a ventilated, enclosed storage unit designed to safely house compressed gas cylinders used in laboratories, particularly those containing toxic, flammable, or highly reactive gases. Its primary function is to provide secondary containment by capturing leaks or releases and exhausting them through a dedicated ventilation system, thereby preventing hazardous gases from entering the laboratory space. By isolating gas cylinders and integrating engineering controls, gas cabinets play a critical role in protecting personnel, equipment, and the facility from gas-related hazards.
