Agree the scope before the visit
Start with the laboratory's agreed requirements and identify who accepts each part of the project. The commissioning plan should connect the equipment supplier, building-services team, laboratory supervisor and facilities team, with a clear record of outstanding work.
For extraction, identify the cupboard model, connected fan, duct route, controls and room ventilation arrangement. Record the intended use and applicable project specifications. Agree which checks, demonstrations and documents are required before the laboratory begins the affected work.
Commissioning a new installation and carrying out periodic SS 11 testing are different activities. Include each required service explicitly in the project scope.
Prepare the installation and room
- Confirm that installation work and relevant services are complete.
- Have the cupboard instructions and final drawings available.
- Identify the agreed room-ventilation operating state.
- Arrange access to the cupboard, controls and relevant equipment.
- Advise the team about any substances or residues present.
The installation planning guide helps assign site responsibilities before testing is booked.
Agree the operating scenarios
Ask the responsible designers and testing team to define the conditions to be assessed. A useful record identifies the room ventilation state and which cupboards or other extract systems operate together.
| Scenario | Information to record |
|---|---|
| Normal occupied use | Intended cupboard arrangement, room supply and equipment operating together. |
| Other approved operating states | Control sequence, sash positions and any agreed changes in airflow. |
| Indications and response | Required checks of controls and alarms, with the operator's documented response. |
Arrange demonstrations through the competent team under the agreed method. Keep commissioning activities coordinated with the laboratory's access and chemical-safety arrangements. Our room-ventilation guide helps identify the interfaces to discuss.
Make the record specific
| Record | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Equipment identification | Connect results with the actual cupboard and fan. |
| Operating configuration | Show sash, controls and relevant room conditions. |
| Test scope and results | Explain what was assessed and any outstanding actions. |
| User instructions | Describe operation, indications and fault reporting. |
Close the handover actions
Assign an owner and completion date to each outstanding item. Keep any restrictions on use clear until the responsible person accepts the completed work.
Store the records where the laboratory and facilities teams can find them. Use the maintenance checklist to plan ongoing care, and make future alterations traceable to the original installation information.