However, before that solution could be implemented, modifications had to be made to the standard sprinkler, which could potentially make the situation worse by discharging a large volume of water. In response to those concerns Merck worked with manufacturer SimplexGrinnell to develop a custom design. The result is the Grinnell AM-6 Aquamist™ sprinkler head, which sprays a mist inside the hood to rapidly put out a fire while producing virtually no discharge on the floor.

Attention to detail was key in producing an effective product. A wire cage around the head ensures that a scientist working inside the hood does not accidentally trigger the system.

"We did testing on the cage configuration," Fry says. "We were concerned that if the wires were too close together they would interfere with dispersion of the mist; if they were too far apart, the sprinkler wouldn't protect well enough."

The system includes a manual shut-off valve so it can be deactivated and automatically drained when a scientist works with water-reactive chemicals. In a recent test, however, Merck found the water mist to be effective in suppressing fire involving water-reactive materials as well.

Not only does the sprinkler head scheme offer enhanced safety, but it also promises to minimize overall lab clean-up should a fire occur. Fry reports that in a recent incident the customized sprinkler system put out a fire in the hood so quickly that it didn't even set off the building's general alarm system. The hood area was then roped off for investigation by the fire and safety departments, while the rest of the lab was up and running in just a few days.

"The difference between getting this lab back into operation versus the typical lab fire is pretty dramatic," Fry says. "Typically, there is enough smoke and water damage and other problems that the entire lab is out of commission for four to six weeks even though only one hood has been damaged," he observes, adding, "I think we will probably see a lot more sprinklers in the hood in the future."

In contrast to the sophisticated sprinkler design, Building 800's approach to fume-hood energy conservation is decidedly low-tech. Fry has introduced a program of unannounced hood inspections, awarding $200 to lab occupants who demonstrate repeated compliance with the request to keep fume hood sashes in the closed position.

While some colleagues initially proposed motion sensors and automated hood closure devices, Fry had several objections to these options.

"First, I don't want to pay for the electronic components up front, and second, I certainly don't want to maintain them," he says. "Third, I really don't like the idea of scientists getting ready to put material and equipment in the hood and then turning around only to find the door has shut, possibly causing them to drop things on the floor."

The inspections are typically carried out during off hours, every six to nine months. Friday night around eight o'clock is a favorite time, Fry relates. In order for scientists to qualify for the incentive, every hood in their lab must be shut for three consecutive tours. The cash distributions occur publicly, adding peer pressure to the motivational mix.

Fry concedes that $200 per person sounds like a lot of money, but the total must be compared to the $2 per hour cost of leaving an eight-foot hood open all weekend.

"It doesn't take long to do the math to see that this program is not all that expensive," he says. "It is working very, very well."

--NS