When designing a laboratory, safety and functionality are the basics. A well-designed lab not only improves productivity but also ensures that everyone working within it is secure. If you are about to start a new laboratory or renovate one, there are a few points of consideration to keep in mind.
In this blog, we will be discussing the essential factors that must be considered for designing a productive and safe lab so that lab work can be done effectively and safely.
Key Considerations for a Safe Laboratory Environment
Designing a lab needs careful analysis of various factors to achieve an efficient and safe lab. The key considerations below will assist you in designing a comfortable and safe lab to work in:
Proper Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is of the highest priority to maintain safety in the lab. It helps in removing injurious fumes, vapors, and dust from the air. Ventilation in the lab avoids harmful substances from accumulating, allowing lab personnel to breathe easily and remain safe.
Proper Storage Solutions
Effective storage of chemicals and equipment minimizes the risk of accidents. Effective storage cabinets, such as storage shelves and chemical storage cabinets, can assist in keeping everything within reach and organized. This eliminates the risk of spills and secure storage of chemicals.
Ergonomic Design
An ergonomic environment can prevent injuries caused by repetitive motion or posture damage. Desks, chairs, and other equipment should be adjustable to suit the user’s height and style of work. This will promote comfort and minimize strain when working for extended periods.
Emergency Equipment
There should be safety gear in every laboratory, including fire extinguishers, eyewash stations, and first aid supplies. They should be within easy reach and inspected on a consistent schedule to verify that they function properly. Being able to react in a timely manner in the event of an emergency can prove to be lifesaving.
Clear Lab Layout
A well-designed, organised layout prevents people from getting in others’ way and helps to find the things that they need. Keeping work areas separate from storage spaces also minimizes contamination and accidents. An efficient lab layout ensures optimal use and safety of the space.
Safety Signage
Safety signs play a vital role in a lab to indicate potential danger. Whether it is a “Flammable” warning sign or a “Wear Protective Gear” sign, these need to be installed in prominent locations. This constant reminder at all times keeps everyone aware of potential hazards.
Compliance with Safety Standards
Laboratories are also obligated to meet safety and cleanliness standards as given by the law. Updation and monitoring on a continuous basis ensure that the laboratory stays updated with the standards to avoid future safety or legal problems.
Basic Equipment for Building a Functional and Safe Laboratory
Now that we’ve discussed lab safety considerations when planning, let’s discuss the equipment needed that provides a laboratory with functionality and safety. Here are some of the most essential equipment available at Santech Labs you should consider:
Laboratory Storage Cabinets
Lab Storage Cabinet with Glass
Good storage cabinets should be present in every laboratory. The Lab Storage Cabinet with Glass available at Santech Labs has four shelves and five compartments, making it easy to store your equipment. The snap-shut locking system of these sleek cabinets will keep everything locked, reducing the risk of spills or unauthorized access. These cabinets are ideal for storing glassware, tools, and chemicals in a safe and neat way.
Chemical Storage Cabinets
A Chemical Storage Cabinet by Santech Labs is a necessity to store chemicals safely in your lab. The cabinet is normally four-shelf, five-compartment, and four-opening-door. The uniqueness of these sleek cabinets is the chemical-resistant material lining of the inner surfaces, which guarantees that the cabinets will not degrade as a result of stored chemicals. For extra protection, PP trays for every shelf are provided, and an exhaust facility mounted over the fume hood proves useful to suck away harmful fumes in a safe manner.
Glass Shutter Overhead Wall Mount Storage
Where there’s limited space, Glass Shutter Overhead Wall Mount Storage is the perfect answer. Auto-closing hinges make easy access and convenient operation easy for these storage units. They can mount above workstations, using vertical space and leaving counters available for alternative purposes.
Sleek System
The Sleek System is a contemporary laboratory furniture design that is functional and stylish. It is ideal for laboratories where space is minimal but functionality is crucial. It comes with heavy-duty adjustable PP legs. The skirting is easy to remove during maintenance, so it is an ideal design for laboratories with frequent cleaning and adjustments.
Pedestal System
Pedestal System is a freestanding, classic piece of furniture that’s extremely resistant to wear and tear. The system consists of solid fixed support and storage for sinks and worktops. It also includes built-in service routings for water, gases, power, and IT, thus ensuring that everything functions seamlessly in your laboratory. It’s an extremely heavy-duty system able to withstand heavy loads, thus perfect for labs with heavy equipment or chemicals.
These pieces of laboratory furniture and storage facilities help to make your laboratory well-organized, safe, and effective. While selecting laboratory equipment, functionality along with aesthetics should be given priority.
Conclusion
Designing an effective and safe laboratory involves a combination of practicality and safety measures. From effective ventilation to ergonomic designs and safety equipment, all elements play a major role in making the workspace productive and safe.
If you’re constructing an entirely new lab or expanding an existing one, explore a wide range of laboratory storage cabinets and other equipment from Santech Labs. We, at Santech Labs, are known to be a reliable laboratory furniture manufacturer that delivers exceptional furniture solutions. Contact us today and design a lab that is not only functional but also safe.
