Turning Laboratory Safety from Assumption into Verifica
Ductless fume hoods offer laboratories a flexible, energy-efficient, and environmentally responsible solution for chemical handling. However, their effectiveness depends on one critical factor: the correct filtration system for the chemicals being used.
Even the most advanced activated carbon filters cannot provide reliable protection if the filtration media is not properly matched to laboratory processes. Without proper evaluation, filter breakthroughs may occur, potentially compromising laboratory safety.
To ensure reliable protection, Erlab created the Erlab Safety Program (ESP)—a comprehensive safety framework that guides laboratories through risk assessment, validation, and ongoing monitoring.
At the heart of ESP lies eValiQuest®, a scientific verification system that ensures every ductless filtration device is fully compatible with its intended laboratory applications. By combining scientific data and expert validation, eValiQuest® transforms safety management from experience-based assumptions into data-driven verification.
- The Limitations of Activated Carbon Filtration
Although activated carbon molecular filtration technology is mature, it is not omnipotent. Its adsorption performance is influenced by various factors:
- Different activated carbon formulations exhibit varying adsorption capacities for acids, bases, and organic vapors.
- Highly volatile laboratory operations, such as acid digestion or nitrogen evaporation, may accelerate filter saturation.
- Environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity can significantly affect adsorption efficiency.
With nearly 60 years of Erlab expertise in molecular filtration technology and access to the global ESP safety database, eValiQuest® can accurately determine:
- The most suitable filter type for specific chemicals and processes
- The expected safe service life of the filter under real laboratory conditions
- The influence of environmental parameters on filtration performance
- Recommendations to optimize filter lifespan and safety
- Risks of Operating Without eValiQuest®:
Operating ductless filtration equipment without a scientific assessment can create serious risks:
- Compliance Risk: According to NF X15-211, ductless fume hoods must undergo a suitability assessment before use, including verification of applicable chemicals and determination of filter replacement cycles. Without this evaluation, compliance with safety standards cannot be ensured.
- Safety Risk: Improper filter selection may allow hazardous gases to escape, potentially exposing laboratory personnel to toxic environments and causing long-term health risks.
- Equipment and Operation Risk: Incorrect filters may saturate prematurely, leading to frequent alarms, equipment corrosion, and reduced operational lifespan. Additionally, the absence of documented safety evaluations can create management vulnerabilities in incident investigations.
- eValiQuest®: Science-Based Safety Management
With the ESP online platform, laboratories can easily complete the entire safety process:
- Submit laboratory application details
- The French R&D team performs scientific verification based on the extensive database.
- Receive a risk assessment report and recommendations for suitability.
- Choose the most suitable Erlab solution.
- Continuously monitor equipment status and maintenance records
The Erlab Safety Program isn’t just a tool.
It’s a culture of safety, a management advantage, and a sustainable choice that protects: a commitment to protection—and responsibility.
- Your people
- Your equipment
- Your environment
eValiQuest® enables laboratories to achieve verifiable, traceable, and scientifically validated safety management. Beyond technology, it represents Erlab’s commitment to laboratory safety, sustainable environmental protection, and responsible equipment management.
By choosing Erlab, you gain a trusted partner committed to building a safer, smarter, and more sustainable laboratory future.
