Ensuring Safe, High-Performance Labs: EFI’s Commissioning Team Completes Fume Hood Testing at Algonquin College

EFI Engineering’s Commissioning Team continues to support Algonquin College with specialized testing and verification of their laboratory infrastructure — helping ensure that students, faculty, and researchers have safe, reliable, and high-performing learning environments.

Recently, our commissioning specialists were on-site performing fume hood performance testing, a critical process for validating the safety and operation of laboratory ventilation systems. These tests confirm that each hood provides proper containment, airflow, and face velocity in accordance with industry standards and manufacturer specifications.

What Fume Hood Testing Involves

Fume hoods are essential for controlling exposure to hazardous vapours, chemicals, and airborne contaminants. EFI’s commissioning process includes:

• Airflow measurement and verification

• Face velocity testing to ensure consistent containment

• Smoke visualization (as shown in the photo) to confirm proper capture and exhaust direction

• Control and alarm function checks

• Integration testing with the building’s mechanical and electrical systems

• Documentation and certification for safety compliance

This thorough approach ensures that the equipment performs exactly as intended — protecting occupants and supporting safe academic operations.

Why Commissioning Matters in Educational Labs

Laboratories demand a higher level of performance compared to typical building systems. Aging equipment, modified ductwork, room pressurization changes, and filter loading can all impact how safely and efficiently a fume hood operates.

EFI’s commissioning team helps institutions like Algonquin College:

• Maintain safe working conditions for staff and students

• Optimize ventilation performance and energy usage

• Identify operational issues before they become costly problems

• Ensure compliance with safety guidelines and regulatory expectations

• Extend the lifespan of critical lab equipment

EFI’s Growing Commissioning Services

From HVAC testing and balancing to emergency power verification, life-safety system integration, and specialized lab equipment testing, EFI Engineering provides a full suite of commissioning services for educational, industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities.

Our team brings hands-on experience, technical expertise, and a practical approach to ensuring every system operates safely and efficiently.

Trusted by Algonquin College — and by Clients Across Canada and the U.S.

EFI Engineering is proud to support Algonquin College in maintaining high-quality laboratory environments. Safe labs lead to better research, better teaching, and better outcomes for students — and we’re thrilled to be part of that mission.

If your facility requires commissioning, re-commissioning, or specialized system testing, our team is ready to help.