Environment, Health and Safety

4.16 Ventilation Rates

4.16 Ventilation Rates

As part of energy conservation measures, ventilation rates for laboratories are determined based on the occupancy and the type of research being conducted. Please see the Laboratory Ventilation page on this website for further information about the program.

If the function of a room changes due to new researchers coming to campus notify EHS through askEHS@cornell.edu about the change.  EHS will then verify if the ventilation rate for a given room is appropriate for the type of research being conducted.

4.16.1 Room Air Pressure in Labs

4.16.1 Room Air Pressure in Labs

Research laboratories should be negative to the hallways and offices.  When positive air pressure occurs, more air is being supplied to the room than what is being removed by the fume hood or general exhaust.  This can result in air from the laboratory (including chemical vapors and dusts) being blown out into the hallway outside of the lab and chemical odors permeating the hallways and surrounding rooms. 

  • Ensure the entrance door to the laboratory is closed.
  • If you notice odors that seem to be escaping from a lab, then please contact your Building Coordinator for assistance.