A Fume Hood, also known as a chemical fume hood or laboratory fume cupboard, is a vital safety device designed to limit exposure to hazardous fumes, vapors, gases, and dust during laboratory procedures. It is commonly used in chemical, pharmaceutical, biological, and academic laboratories where toxic or volatile substances are handled.

The primary function of a fume hood is to capture and exhaust harmful airborne contaminants, protecting the laboratory personnel and maintaining a safe working environment. This is achieved through airflow engineering: air is drawn into the hood from the laboratory, preventing contaminants from escaping, and then exhausted outside the building or filtered and recirculated depending on the hood type.

Fume hoods typically consist of a ventilated enclosure with a front sash (sliding glass window) that allows the user to perform experiments while serving as a barrier against splashes and exposure. The interior is often lined with chemical-resistant materials like stainless steel or epoxy-coated surfaces, making it durable and easy to clean.

Modern fume hoods are equipped with airflow monitors, alarms, lighting systems, and energy-saving features to improve performance and safety. They come in various types such as ducted, ductless (recirculating), and walk-in fume hoods, each suitable for different applications and laboratory layouts.