How does air flow in a horizontal hood?

In a horizontal hood, the airflow is designed to flow back to front across the work area. This design is crucial for maintaining a sterile environment during the preparation of compounded sterile products. The horizontal airflow system utilizes a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which effectively captures airborne contaminants, ensuring that the work surface is provided with a continuous flow of clean air.

As the air moves from the back of the hood toward the front, it creates a protective barrier that minimizes the risk of contamination to the sterile products being prepared. This back-to-front airflow pattern helps direct any potential particulate matter away from the compounding area, thereby safeguarding the sterility of the formulations being made.

Understanding this airflow is vital for technicians to ensure compliance with aseptic techniques and to optimize the safety and efficacy of compounded sterile preparations.