Ventilation and Exhaust System Design and Application in Pathology Laboratories

Created on 12.25
Pathology laboratories are high-risk areas where hazardous chemicals and microorganisms are handled, and the cleanliness and airflow organization directly affect laboratory safety, sample quality, and personnel health. A well-designed ventilation and exhaust system is a key safeguard for safe laboratory operation.
Ventilation and Exhaust System Design and Application in Pathology Laboratories

1. Core Functions of Ventilation and Exhaust Systems

Air Circulation and Cleanliness
Introduces filtered clean air to maintain indoor particulate levels in accordance with ISO 5~ISO 8 standards.
Removes contaminated air and waste gases to prevent accumulation of harmful substances.
Hazardous Gas Control
Efficiently removes toxic and volatile chemicals such as formaldehyde and xylene.
Works with local exhaust devices (fume hoods, exhaust hoods) to minimize personnel exposure.
Maintaining Pressure Differentials
Controls pressure between the lab, corridors, and clean zones to ensure proper airflow and prevent cross-contamination.

2. Key Design Considerations

Airflow Direction
Maintain one-way airflow from clean zones to contaminated areas to protect samples and workstations.
High-risk areas (e.g., sample collection, formaldehyde handling) should have dedicated exhaust systems.
Exhaust Volume and Air Changes
Calculate air changes based on laboratory classification and operational requirements to ensure timely removal of waste gases.
Typical pathology lab air changes: 12–20 ACH (air changes per hour); higher for high-risk zones.
Filtration Systems
Use HEPA or high-efficiency filters at air supply and exhaust points to control particulate levels.
Local exhaust may include activated carbon or specialized filters to adsorb harmful chemical vapors.
System Integration and Control
Monitor pressure, airflow, and air quality in real time, with automatic alarms for abnormalities.
Can integrate with lab automation for remote management and data tracking.

3. Application Value in Pathology Laboratories

Protect Personnel: Reduces exposure to toxic chemicals and microorganisms.
Protect Samples and Reagents: Maintains a clean operating environment, preventing cross-contamination.
Improve Laboratory Efficiency: Stabilizes airflow and optimizes equipment use and workflow.
Ensure Compliance: Meets ISO, GMP, and hospital construction standards.

4. Conclusion

The ventilation and exhaust system is a critical infrastructure for the cleanliness, safety, and efficient operation of pathology laboratories. Through proper airflow design, air change calculations, filtration, and intelligent monitoring, laboratories can ensure safe operations, preserve sample quality, and comply with industry standards, making it an indispensable component of modern pathology cleanroom engineering.
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