What is platform construction and why is it important? Built Environment Matters podcast with our Head of Global Systems, Jaimie Johnston MBE
over the long-run.. Capacity model for a biopharma QC lab showing utilisation of individual equipment items over time.. 2.
Structural frames in existing office buildings may be unable to support higher lab loads or vibration sensitive equipment..Some automated and larger-scale lab equipment can be particularly heavy, and even high densities of smaller equipment or storage items can result in relatively high loads when compared to a standard office fit-out.
A typical office may have a live load capacity of around 3-4kN/m.2. , while a lab will often require 4-5kN/m.2. , with some specialised equipment reaching over 20kN/m.
Labs will also require additional suspended services and potentially new HVAC or utility plant in the refurbished office space or on the roof, meaning a wider building assessment is necessary.Additionally, some lab operations can be extremely vibration sensitive, and a lightweight steel-framed office might not be the best starting point..
Potential solutions include spacing and arranging lab equipment or storage to better distribute loads or reduce vibrations (e.g.
by placing sensitive equipment near grids and cores), introducing new steelwork, converting ground-floor units or older, sturdier buildings, or localised solutions such as spreader plates, analytical benches, and even active dampening systems..Further considerations include containment and contamination control, building security and opening times (e.g.
for 24/7 lab operations), shared lab functions (e.g.washrooms or stores), and IP sensitivities – with the size and type of life science business or tenant a driving factor in how these are managed.
In all cases, a lab design should be developed as soon as possible, with material and personnel flows and relevant zonings mapped out across all lab and common areas to identify any potential issues.. 8.Existing office buildings may struggle to accommodate more onerous laboratory fire and egress requirements.. A lab will most likely contain more flammable or hazardous materials and sources of ignition than an office.