Efficient and Safe Lab Setup
Today’s modern lab must be designed safely and efficiently. Use the following as a guide to think through the different areas that should be considered when setting up a lab.
Work areas
Thinking about the work areas are critical with lab setup. The area needs to be optimally designed. Adequate space is needed within the lab and between each bench for planned and future workflow and required egress and ingress. Work areas need adequate space at each bench for placing equipment and to have enough room to perform processes. When designing this space, consider all planned and future free-standing lab equipment.
Storage and equipment areas
Make sure storage and equipment areas have appropriate ventilation and are sufficient in size. Check that all equipment includes a grounded plug. Review any older equipment to be used if an existing lab is being renovated.
Chemical storage areas
Perform a chemical use assessment for the project. Secure chemical storage but provide for safe and convenient retrieval. Provide space adequate for the segregation and ventilation of chemicals. Separate storage should be provided for flammables, acids, and corrosives.
Safety equipment
Install eyewash stations and safety showers within 10 seconds of unobstructed walking time from the location of a hazard.
Services and utilities
Generate a free-standing and benchtop equipment spreadsheet. Among other details, this spreadsheet should include information on all services required by equipment item number. Consideration should be given to electricity, plumbed and bottled gas, hot and cold water, and drainage required for equipment. Consider centralized safety and servicing shutoffs for all utilities, and telephone, data, and low-voltage systems.
Traffic patterns and spaces
All rooms should have at least two forms of egress. Minimum aisleway clearance is 42 inches (2.54 cm). Fume hoods should be located away from main traffic aisles or doorways. Doors should be inset and open outward.
Lab ventilation
Understand the use of all chemicals and biological elements for the lab space. Chemical fume hoods require a supply air source and are vented to the exterior of the building. Ventilation should be considered based upon the procedure or equipment being used. Lab ventilation should be a minimum of four exchanges per hour. Exhaust fans should be located outside and on the roof of the building.
