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Laboratory extraction advice

Designing a fume extraction system: a project brief

A well-prepared brief connects the laboratory’s work with the equipment and building services. We manufacture and install cupboards, fans and ducting, helping your project team define the extraction scope before work begins.

Extraction design brief

  1. 01Start with the process
  2. 02Create a responsibility schedule
  3. 03Record assumptions before quotation

Start with the process

Describe what will happen inside the cupboard, including substances, concentrations, heat sources, equipment and normal operating duration. Attach relevant safety data sheets and identify who is responsible for the workplace risk assessment.

Use the local exhaust ventilation guide to see how capture, transport, air movement and discharge fit together. The brief should describe the intended task clearly enough for the team to assess those parts.

Create a responsibility schedule

Resolve each design interface
InterfaceAgree who provides it
Process requirementsHazards, apparatus and operating scenarios.
Cupboard selectionModel, size, connections and operating duty.
Building servicesRoom ventilation, electrical supplies and service connections.
Exhaust routeDucting, fan, supports, penetrations and discharge assessment.
HandoverTesting, records, instructions and training.

Record assumptions before quotation

Distinguish measured site dimensions from provisional layout information. Identify access limits, roof work, occupied areas and activities that may restrict installation. Include any planned future expansion as a separate requirement for review.

Our installation planning guide covers site preparation. The cost guide helps you compare scopes without overlooking associated building work.

Use a review point before ordering

  • Confirm the process and selected cupboard together.
  • Review the final duct route and fan duty.
  • Coordinate replacement air and controls with the mechanical designer.
  • Agree access, services and installation responsibilities.
  • Define acceptance checks and the records required at handover.

Record changes to the brief as the design develops. A late change to apparatus, chemicals or the route should return to the relevant designer for assessment, with the equipment schedule updated to match.

Bring the team a common starting point

Send your process summary and preliminary drawings. We can discuss the cupboard, fan and ducting scope and identify the information still needed.