Setting up or refurbishing a lab is a huge undertaking, especially when you stop to think about all the factors that you will need to take into consideration. From furniture to equipment, there are lots of decisions that you need to make before your lab can be used.

Here, we’ve shared some of the key considerations that you need to think about, as well as a list of must-have items to help you start planning the best solution.

Knowing What Work Will be Done in Your Lab

Before you can start buying equipment you need to think about the purpose of your lab and the work that will be carried out in it when it is finished. Will it be a medical grade lab, a research lab or an analytical lab? Will you need specialised accessibility, air capacity or safety features? When you have worked out the function and requirements for your lab then you can move on to deciding the type of layout you will need.

Plan Your Lab Layout

Taking the time to properly design your lab layout will have a huge impact on the overall effectiveness and efficiency of it. Think about the workspace required for the number of people that will be using the space, as well as any specific equipment that needs to be installed.

Also, consider the storage system you will need and where your sockets will be positioned. By taking a thorough approach to planning the layout, you can help your team to get the workspace they need to produce work to the highest of standards.

Think About Safety and Accessibility

In addition to planning an effective layout, you will also need to think about any safety of accessibility requirements for your team. This can include installing safety equipment for fires, fumes and chemical spills, as well as a simple waste system for any hazardous materials.

You will also need to think about what your counters are made from depending on the needs of the lab. There’s a number of different options to choose from including fireproof, chemical resistance, moisture-proof and more!

Finally, once you have completed your design, you will need to check that all your plans include EN-certified equipment so that your lab complies with all safety requirements in the UK and EU.

Pick Out Your Furniture & Equipment

With everything properly planned, you can move on to picking out the right furniture and equipment for your lab. We've shared a handy list to get you started:

• Chemical Storage Cabinets – storing chemicals safely is one of the most obvious rules in a lab and investing in an expertly designed chemical storage cabinet will help you to do that. They come in a range of sizes and options so that you can personalise your solution to the chemicals you will be using.
• Fume Cabinets – whether you need a ductless or ducted option there are a range of fume cabinets to choose from, including walk-in options for larger labs. To get the best, you will need to ensure that they comply with all safety regulations and laws.
• CAV or VAV System – whether you need a constant air volume system or a variable air volume system, you will need to install the right sized solution for your lab, including whether you need a heated or cooled air option.
• Biosafety Cabinets – if your lab team are working with pathogens that need a specific biosafety level then a biosafety cabinet is an essential component and can be built to any size or specification required.
• Air Purification & Sterilisation – if your lab is based in a medical centre or needs to reduce pathogens and stop the spread of airborne illnesses then you will need to consider purchasing an air purifier and/or an air sterilisation system.
• Lab Furniture – from washing solutions to chemical carts and trolleys, there are lots of different furniture options to think about. Investing in the right solutions for your team could be the difference between achieving a breakthrough and not!

Let TION Help

If you want expert advice and support when kitting out your new lab, then the team at TION are here to help. With years of industry experience and only the best equipment that can be designed and manufactured to your exact specification, we can make sure that your lab is fully functional and offers the best working conditions for your team. Contact us today to find out more!