Fume cupboards and cabinets are a laboratory’s first line of defence against hazardous exposure. These systems protect personnel from dangerous chemicals, vapours, and fumes, but only when every component is performing as it should.

Why testing matters

The safety and efficiency of fume cupboards and cabinets depend on multiple systems working in harmony. If airflow, extraction, or sealing is compromised, personnel can be exposed to serious health risks.

Key performance factors requiring regular verification include:

• Airflow integrity: Smooth entry and effective containment

• Fume extraction efficiency: Complete removal of hazardous vapours

• Environmental integration: Correct positioning within lab ventilation

• Structural integrity: Sound construction and sealing performance

• Exhaust operation: Reliable fume removal and safe disposal (cupboards)

• Control systems: Monitoring, alarms, and cleaning functions (where fitted)

Compliance & Standards

Our testing protocols ensure full compliance with:

• AS/NZS 2243.8 (2014) — Fume cupboards

• AS/NZS 2243.9 (2009) — Fume cabinets

These standards ensure both safety and performance, reducing operational hazards.

Testing Schedule

Commissioning

• All new fume cupboards and cabinets must be tested by a NATA-accredited laboratory before being placed in service.

Ongoing maintenance

• 6-monthly inspections: Recommended for ongoing performance monitoring

• Annual certification: Full testing required to maintain compliance

Comprehensive test suite

Our certification process includes all required performance assessments:

• Smoke testing: Airflow patterns and containment

• Face velocity measurement: Adequate capture velocity

• Noise level assessment: Comfortable working environment

• Luminance testing: Sufficient workspace lighting

Confidence in compliance

With AG&G Services, you can be confident every element of your fume cupboards and cabinets is functioning as designed. Our NATA-accredited testing delivers peace of mind that your laboratory remains safe, compliant, and fully operational.