From Outdated Activated Carbon Filtering Hoods to Advanced Ventilation: A Case Study in Safer Solvent Handling
Becarv delivered a custom solution to a classified pharmaceutical facility handling hazardous solvents by integrating chemical exhaust hoods with a modular HVAC system. This enhanced operator safety, optimized energy efficiency, and minimized disruptions. The system dynamically adjusts ventilation based on real-time activity, ensuring energy savings, compliance with EHS regulations, and operator comfort for increased productivity.
Addressing EHS Risks Around Solvent Handling Systems
A Belgium-based pharmaceutical company specializing in women’s health faced safety challenges with outdated chemical exhaust hoods and activated carbon filters. While effective, ensuring filtering efficiency between replacements was difficult. To comply with updated safety regulations and mitigate risks, the company required a solution that maintained safety while adapting to facility and operational constraints.
Tailored Ventilation Solution for Safety and Efficiency
Becarv’s Technical Solution: Advanced Exhaust and HVAC Systems
Becarv supplied a custom solution integrating a modular Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system to optimize safety, flexibility, and efficiency in handling volatile solvents:
- Chemical Exhaust Hoods: Efficiently expelling contaminated air through a duct network to the exterior, ensuring safe containment and venting of hazardous vapors.
- Advanced Air Handling Unit (AHU): Ensures balanced airflow with precise air filtration, temperature, and humidity control, compensating for pressure drops from exhaust hoods. The modular control system adjusts ventilation based on the number of active hoods, optimizing energy use and minimizing operational costs.
Ergonomics and Operator Comfort
Becarv conducted an ergonomic study and created a mock-up at our Rochefort workshop to refine workspace elements. Ergonomic features were integrated to enhance operator comfort and productivity:
- Adjustable Work Surface Height to accommodate both seated and standing positions, promoting comfort in various postures.
- Arm Supports and Adjustable Footrests reduce strain and improve posture during extended use.
Why They Chose Becarv
- Technical Expertise and Custom Solutions: A solution tailored to their needs, balancing operational constraints with safety and efficiency.
- Commitment to Design: A holistic approach combining technical and ergonomic improvements, enhancing confidence in Becarv’s vision.
- Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings: Optimized ventilation delivering long-term cost savings and energy efficiency.
Key Outcomes and Measurable Benefits
The solution addressed immediate EHS and operational challenges in hazardous solvent handling, while delivering measurable long-term improvements in energy efficiency, safety, and operator comfort:
- Health and Safety (EHS): Improved staff protection by controlling exposure to harmful substances, ensuring safety compliance.
- Energy Efficiency: Optimized ventilation for real-time activity, cutting unnecessary consumption and allowing operational savings.
- Operator Comfort and Productivity: Enhanced comfort and reduced strain, boosting productivity.
- Forward-Looking Approach: Becarv proactively integrated an additional holding box in the discharge line to facilitate solvent capture, ensuring adaptability to future regulatory changes.