On our current project for Landsec, we’ve witnessed the benefits of prototyping everything in advance at our testing facility in Ropley.
This is exacerbated if there are fume cupboards, as the discharges go to the roof and discharge vertically.The discharge stacks for these fans can be quite high, so we may have to design roof supports for flues.. One unusual issue we encountered was a vibration requirement for an X-ray machine.
This is further evidence of the importance of understanding the purpose of the laboratory equipment being installed early in the lab design process..Finally, we must be aware of how the laboratory equipment is to be delivered to the site.Some lab equipment can be extremely heavy, and the beam layout may dictate where the equipment can sit within the space.
We will also always consider how this lab equipment gets to the location in the first place, and any subsequent special requirements..Mechanical Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) requirements for lab design.
A laboratory design should be services-led.
It’s up to the services engineer to fully understand the client laboratory equipment, the room requirements, the health and safety issues and the processes within the lab, as well as understanding what the other disciplines need to provide.Primary prevention measures should include the selection of non-toxic materials, products with low levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), furnishings without fire retardants and cleaning products without harmful chemicals..
In areas with potentially high pollution levels, the adoption of adequate monitoring is recommended, combined with air filtration systems (HEPA filters for PM2.5 particles, carbon filters for VOCs and UV light filter for airborne pathogens)..Measures to improve hygiene and reduce the transmission of pathogens include the adoption of touchless technology (light switches, lift buttons, doors), antiviral coatings and the provision of hand sanitiser dispensers.
Attenuation measures include the provision of openable windows, increased fresh air rates and avoiding air recirculation..Balancing improvements to air quality and energy efficiency..
(Editor: Beginner Adapters)