Work with Perchloric Acid in the laboratory presents a constant danger of explosion and many safety precautions must be taken to insure the utmost safety for laboratory personnel. Proper care must be taken in the design of perchloric hoods to maintain maximum safety. Fume hood interiors must be non-porous and inorganic, the most ideal material is type 316 stainless steel that is continuously welded without seams and formed coved corners. A wash-down system should be incorporated for periodic cleaning of the hood. All baffles should be removable for access and cleaning. Duct work should be short and straight to allow for visual inspection and should be provided with a wash down system for cleaning. A perchloric hood is a single use piece of equipment and should not be used for any other purpose.