When outfitting a laboratory, the stakes are high. The furniture you choose not only supports your daily operations but also ensures safety and efficiency. Whether establishing a new lab or upgrading an existing one, the right furniture is crucial. Here are a few things to consider before making your first purchase of laboratory furniture.
Understanding Your Laboratory’s Core Needs
Before diving into the vast market of laboratory furniture, pinpointing your lab’s specific requirements is essential. Laboratories vary greatly—ranging from research and development to educational and clinical settings. Recognizing your lab’s primary function is the first step to tailoring your furniture choices to your needs. Some common laboratories are:
–Analytical & Quality Laboratories
–Animal Laboratories
–Biosafety Laboratories
—Cannabis Laboratories
–Chemical Laboratories
–Cleanrooms Laboratories
–Clinical & Medical Laboratories
–Educational Laboratories
–Electronics Laboratories
–Manufacturing Laboratories
–Production Laboratories
–Radiological Laboratories
–Research & Development Laboratories
—Jewelry Making Laboratories
–Plus many more….
Since laboratory set-ups can differ, knowing the type will help determine the furniture needs.
Deciding Between Wet Lab and Dry Labs
When considering laboratory furniture, the designers will need to know the laboratory’s intended use specifically, will it be a “wet” lab or a “dry” lab? Wet laboratories are where chemicals, drugs, or other materials are handled primarily in liquid solutions. There is often a need for chemical-resistant surfaces, built-in sinks, and eye wash stations. And on occasion, showers may be needed, as well.
On the other hand, a Dry Lab is where work is done with small volumes of dry chemicals. These labs tend to possess large amounts of electronic equipment for computing mathematical models or computer-generated tests.
Fume Hood Requirements
Many laboratories require the use of a fume hood for the safety of their workers. When designing a laboratory space and a fume hood is needed, additional considerations should be made. For example, where will the fume hood be positioned in the laboratory? The fume hood will affect airflow and affect energy efficiencies. Placing a fume hood in the center of a laboratory will have a different effect than placing it in the corner of a laboratory. Many times, placement is determined based on safety and ductwork needs. Determining the placement of large items such as a fume hood will allow other laboratory furniture to be installed most efficiently.
Maximizing Laboratory Efficiencies
Efficiency in lab design isn’t just about spatial arrangement; it’s about integrating solutions that streamline operations and foster productivity. This involves selecting furniture that can adapt to evolving research needs and technologies, ensuring your lab remains at the forefront of efficiency and innovation.
Balancing Quality and Cost
Along with gaining efficiencies in laboratory design, the price must be considered. Whether you are replacing a few pieces of furniture or starting anew from scratch, price plays a significant role. The return on investment, the life expectancy of products, and the cost of ownership shall be assessed before making a purchase. Complete due diligence and make sure that your purchase is a quality investment.
Shipping Time
Laboratory furniture is a long-term investment that is installed and not easily replaced. Many companies will accept an order and then build the furniture. This process will last around 2-3 months. Once completed, shipping and install time is likely another 2-4 weeks.
Laboratory furniture from National Laboratory Sales is a little different.
With a massive warehouse, furniture is already produced and ready to be shipped. From purchase to delivery a custom laboratory cabinet will arrive in a matter of weeks and a newly purchased fume hood can be shipped within a few days. If time is of the essence, know your options as the completion of a laboratory could be delayed if the shipping time is not considered.
National Laboratory Sales is the place to start for your laboratory furniture and fume hood needs. For assistance in selecting the right furniture and equipment for your laboratory, call and speak to a lab design consultant today at 815-670-6400.