Laboratories are among the most important installations globally. They offer high-tech environments for researchers to make agricultural advancements, come up with groundbreaking medical therapies, and develop innovative solutions to some of the world’s greatest problems. Here are 10 tips for successful lab design.
1. Work Closely With All Stakeholders Throughout the Entire Lab Design Process
This means from the design kickoff meeting to consistently requesting their continued input to the end of the process. Getting the various opinions and perspectives from the stakeholders will provide an invaluable foundation for the process.
2. Size the Lab per User Requirements
What is the lab for? The lab size should fit its purpose. Inadequate equipment storage can be problematic. This is because it will limit the lab’s flexibility, growth and functionality.
3. Identify the Control Areas Early
Identifying the control areas early in the lab design process means that the architects and planners can come up with a building design that has the desirable aesthetics. Therefore, the lab will meet all necessary code and safety requirements.
4. Plan for Chemical Storage
If your lab will be carrying out heavy chemistry and chemical experiments, you need to plan appropriately for the storage of the heavy chemicals. This will eliminate potential code and safety hazards in the future.
5. Coordinate HVAC Control System With Fume Hoods
To meet lab pressurization, containment and safety code requirements, it’s critical that lab planners and mechanical engineers ensure proper coordination between the HVAC control system and the fume hoods.
6. Ensure Collaboration Between Electrical, Mechanical and Plumbing Engineers
This will guarantee that the electrical, mechanical and plumbing designs are well-coordinated. As a result, future operations and maintenance will be trouble-free.
7. Develop a Reliable, Comprehensive Equipment List
Check the equipment list you receive from the client thoroughly and guide the client where needed. Ensure that the equipment list is comprehensive enough to cover the spatial planning of the lab and its power, data and backup needs.
8. Consider Equipment for Heat Gains
You likely are wondering, "What is a heat gain?" This is heat generated by the lab equipment when in use. Equipment for heat gains is necessary. The cooling system is used to get rid of this heat to ensure the lab equipment operates optimally and safely. The lab must have high-performance cooling systems with sufficient headroom.
9. Determine the Use of Flexible Casework
You need to figure out when to utilize flexible casework. This is because although flexible casework provides a lab with unmatched adaptability where projects are frequently changing, its high cost can be a huge burden.
10. Check Clearances and Pathways Throughout the Facility
You need to ensure that the facility has enough clearance to fit the lab equipment it’s expected to house and that the doors are wide enough to allow passage of the equipment.
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