Your lab’s design can have a considerable influence on the efficacy of your work and the ability of your researchers to fulfill their responsibilities. Whether you’re a university, an industrial firm, a hospital, or another company that depends on your lab to perform principal functions, there’s a strong chance you can enhance the functionality of your lab setup. Continue reading to discover essential tips for an efficient laboratory layout.
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Emphasis on Safety
Your top priority should always be to ensure that all people working inside are in the safest possible environment. Keep all passageways clear of debris or barriers and have designated safety exits available in several locations.
To prevent potential hazards from emerging or escalating, you’ll also need to add vital safety features like eyewash stations, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, safety showers, and other equipment. You should also strategically place gas detectors around the space, and you should maintain each one regularly to ensure that they are operating at peak performance.
Install Proper Lighting
You undoubtedly need sufficient lighting to view what you’re working on inside the lab, so having key illumination is essential. To conserve energy and create a more appealing work atmosphere, try to use natural daylight as much as possible through windows and skylights. If natural lighting isn’t an option due to location or equipment constraints, ensure you have adequate lighting for personnel to do their duties.
Have a Flexible Space
One of the essential tips for an efficient laboratory layout is that the facility should provide ample versatility so that you can quickly alter it to meet the needs of present and future occupants. Make sure you have a generous amount of storage space that is readily accessible and has a multitude of shelves, cabinets, and storage sheds to safely store equipment you’re not currently using. Consider putting benches and other storage pieces on wheels so that you can add and remove them as needed.
Work With Other Technical Personnel
During the design phase, you should consult with engineering, plumbing, and electrical experts to ensure that all components of your lab synchronize in perfect harmony. Having technicians from divergent backgrounds work with you can help ensure that you’re creating a functional environment that allows for maximum efficiency. If you don’t, you risk generating an impractical lab arrangement that’s difficult to work with and will require additional upkeep and renovation in the future.
A safe and efficient workplace makes for happier and more productive employees. Even slight changes can help produce significant results when guided by informed decision-making.