Never Store Instruments Inside Fume Hoods in GMP Laboratories

Don’t Store Instruments Inside Fume Hoods in GMP Laboratories

Remember: Fume hoods are designed for hazardous operations — not for instrument storage. Storing equipment inside them disrupts airflow and increases corrosion risk.

Why This Matters in GMP

Fume hoods are engineered to contain and exhaust hazardous vapors during chemical handling — not as storage cabinets. Placing instruments like pH meters, balances, or spectrophotometers inside hoods exposes them to corrosive gases and disturbs airflow balance, reducing containment efficiency. Additionally, cluttering the workspace with stored equipment can obstruct safe working practices and delay emergency response in case of spills or fire.

Also Read: Ensure Tightness of Primary Packaging Before Dispatch in GMP

For example, storing a conductivity meter inside a fume hood where acids are handled may result in corrosion of internal components due to vapor exposure. The instrument may fail calibration or produce erroneous results, compromising test accuracy and traceability.

Regulatory and Compliance Implications

21 CFR Part 211.63 requires that laboratory equipment be designed and maintained to function properly under intended use. EU GMP Chapter 3 addresses facility and equipment layout to minimize contamination and hazard risk. WHO GMP mandates segregation of hazardous activities and proper equipment usage within laboratory areas.

Auditors inspect lab layouts, fume hood certifications, and

observe equipment storage practices. Instruments found inside hoods during audits often trigger citations for poor laboratory controls, inadequate equipment care, or deviation from validated use conditions.

Also Read: Never Allow Mobile Carts with Dirty Wheels into Clean GMP Zones

Implementation Best Practices

Use designated instrument benches or cabinets outside the fume hood for equipment storage. Label fume hoods with “No Storage” signs and restrict access to authorized chemical operations only. Calibrate and qualify fume hoods periodically, ensuring airflow remains undisturbed and complies with containment specifications.

Include hood usage guidelines in laboratory SOPs and train personnel on hazards of improper equipment placement. Conduct periodic safety audits to ensure compliance and document corrective actions if deviations are identified.

Regulatory References

– 21 CFR Part 211.63 – Equipment design and hazard prevention
– EU GMP Chapter 3 – Premises and equipment layout
– WHO TRS 957, Annex 4 – Laboratory design and safety
– OSHA Laboratory Standard (29 CFR 1910.1450) – Chemical hygiene in labs

Also Read: Never Expose Empty Vials to Uncontrolled Environments in GMP Areas