Identify the residue before choosing a cleaner
Check the record of work carried out in the cupboard. Identify the substances and any mixtures or reaction residues before choosing a cleaning method. Your laboratory procedure should specify suitable cleaning materials, protective equipment and waste handling.
Use the instructions for the installed cupboard and the relevant chemical information together. A method suitable for one residue or work surface may be unsuitable for another. Refer unknown contamination or a significant spill to your laboratory’s incident procedure.
Prepare the work area
- Arrange the work with the laboratory supervisor and the people using the cupboard.
- Complete or make safe the active process under the approved procedure.
- Remove items that are no longer needed and return chemicals to their appropriate storage.
- Identify the approved cleaner, equipment and waste containers before starting.
- Keep the required extraction and operating conditions in place throughout the work.
The model instructions and site procedure should establish how the cupboard is operated during cleaning. Cleaning preparation is not a reason to improvise isolation or alter control settings.
Review items kept in the working chamber as part of this preparation. For the next task, our use checklist covers the starting checks.
Keep routine cleaning separate from service work
Routine users should work within the cleaning tasks they are trained and authorised to perform. Access behind baffles, inside ductwork or around electrical and control components needs the appropriate service arrangements.
If you find damaged surfaces, a sash fault or unusual operating behaviour, record it and tell the supervisor. We can discuss the concern through our fume cupboard servicing enquiry route. Include the model, location and a safely taken photograph where useful.
Leave a clear handover
Record what was cleaned, the method used, any residue remaining and any faults identified. Follow the laboratory’s procedure for returning the cupboard to use. Keep the work area clear of cleaning supplies and waste when the task is complete.
A useful record might read: “Routine surface cleaning completed under laboratory procedure; mark on rear work surface reported for review; no service panels opened.” Add the asset number, date and the responsible person so the next user knows which cupboard the record refers to.
If the work is preparation for a technician’s visit, agree the cleaning or decontamination handover in advance. Tell us about chemical history and any areas that staff could not safely access.