What can be done to minimize exposure to airborne contaminants?

To minimize exposure to airborne contaminants, utilizing fume hoods or respirators as necessary is essential because these tools are specifically designed to protect individuals from inhaling harmful substances. Fume hoods provide a controlled environment that captures and removes potentially hazardous vapors, fumes, and particles from the workspace, ensuring that they do not enter the ambient air that workers breathe. This is critical in laboratory settings where volatile chemicals or biological agents may be present.

Respirators serve a similar purpose by filtering out airborne particles and contaminants, providing an additional layer of protection for those who may not be able to work in a fume hood for all activities. Proper use of these protective measures is a key component of laboratory safety practices, allowing for safer handling of materials while minimizing health risks associated with exposure to toxic substances.

Although other options may contribute to safety in the lab, they do not specifically address the control of airborne contaminants as effectively as fume hoods and respirators do.