Working with Chemicals Chemicals used in the laboratory release gases, vapors or fumes that can risk personnel safety. While standard operating procedures (SOPs) can vary between labs, ducted fume hoods or ductless fume hoods are typically required when working with chemicals. Labs that handle higher volumes of hazardous substances often benefit from the addition of ceiling-mounted filtration units. Chemical Storage Chemicals stored in safety cabinets still release vapors that can be harmful to personnel. Modular filtration systems pull fumes from within your safety cabinet to help protect workers and the environment from inhalation risks. Filtration systems either expel fumes through an existing exhaust system or use an activated carbon filter to adsorb vapors and recirculate the filtered air back into the lab.