Passive solar buildings are expected to provide their intended functions, safely and without adverse health effects, and at substantial energy savings compared to conventional buildings. Moreover, passive solar buildings are frequently considered as appropriate technology in parts of the world where the incidence rates of diseases associated with indoor exposures may be the highest.
A research program was undertaken by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to investigate ventilation performance of different laboratory configurations and their effect on the laboratory hood. The intention is to provide a basis for guidelines aimed at maximizing laboratory hood containment.