The Challenge

The chemical laboratory was experiencing extreme negative pressure. The exhaust rate was measured at 17,650 CFM, which was excessive for the existing equipment. Surrounding the laboratory was a production plant that emitted a hydrogen sulfide byproduct. The laboratory’s negative pressure was pulling in the hydrogen sulfide putting laboratory personnel at serious risk of injury.

World BioHazTec  inspected the chemical laboratory and systems as well as observed the staff operating the laboratory and determined that the air conditioning system was working too hard to keep the laboratory cool. Staff were not operating the fume hoods properly. They would leave the devices without closing the sash, contributing directly to the extreme negative pressure in the laboratory.

The Solution

World BioHazTec recommended replacing the outdated fume hoods to take advantage of the most current technology. New hoods were equipped with automatic sashes and variable air volume controls. Shell was satisfied with the product recommendation to ensure that staff operated the laboratory equipment properly. Variable air volume control fume hoods allow airflow to adjust according to the position of the sash, as opposed to constant air volume systems. This ensures a constant face velocity is maintained while working and contributes to superior hood performance. As another advantage, the recommended fume hoods greatly reduce the operating cost of the system, making the laboratory more energy efficient.

World BioHazTec proceeded to oversee the entire alteration of the chemical laboratory. During the design phase, World BioHazTec provided the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) schematics layout, proposed the controls system, provided conceptual and detailed design of the renovation, and drafted the Mechanical and Engineering specifications. Quotes were obtained from general contractors, as were the required safety permits to enable the general contractor to work on Shell’s premises. Throughout the project, World BioHazTec had a supervising officer on-site to monitor work progress and development.

The Result

World BioHazTec continued to monitor the general contractor’s progress. Our team conducted testing and certification processes to guarantee compliance prior to authorizing the handover to Shell, providing assurance that the facility was primed for secure and effective operations.