Science Lab Design and Installation

A major factor in designing school science labs is the layout. The layout should ensure everyone can move around the room to minimise accidents. Lab furniture and materials are important in the design process of safe labs, including:

• High tables or fitted benches arranged around service pedestals.
• Providing skid-based chairs at a suitable height for benches.
• Using flooring that is resistant to most materials and easy to clean.
• The material used on tabletops has anti-scratch and chemical-resistant properties.

School laboratories design and installation have multiple requirements to ensure the safety of both students and teachers. This includes the materials used, equipment fitting, and material storage solutions for easy access. Some of the safety factors we have in our science learning environments include:

• Install all equipment, such as plumbing and gas valves, on worktops.
• Installation of lockable cupboards to store harmful chemicals/equipment.
• The use of a master key for teachers to all cupboards.
• Storage space for bags and coats near the classroom entrance to minimise trip hazards.

Storage

Science lab curriculums often require various science equipment and resources, including chemicals, scientific equipment, and hazardous materials. Install suitable storage in the science labs and preparation rooms to keep these resources safe and secure.

Place most storage for science labs away from teaching areas. Recommend including storage inside the technician or preparation room. Teaching labs may contain storage for specific equipment, such as Bunsen burners and power packs.

Many science resources and equipment pose a risk to health and safety. Suitable storage facilities are essential for storing equipment. Store hazardous materials inside a shielded container with a lock. This also applies to dangerous chemicals.

Preparation Areas

The preparation and technician areas are the backbone of science in schools. Technicians require a suitable preparation area to prepare any science equipment or chemicals necessary for a lesson plan. After a practical lesson, these areas will also handle the cleaning and disposal of equipment.

These areas should also be by teaching labs to allow for easy access. Reducing the distance resources move before and after lessons also reduces the risk of safety hazards. Such spaces should be large enough, with a suitable layout to support technicians.

Student Belongings

Many students will carry bags and coats around between lessons, including science. However, keep these away from practical and seating areas to minimise safety and fall hazards. Recommend placing open-fronted lockers and coat hooks by the lab entrance.

Size and Layout

There are no specific regulations relating to the size of a science lab. However, the size of the teaching space should align with class size. The size of a given space will also affect the layout. Require sufficient spacing between furniture and fixtures to reduce accidents during practical exercises.

Fume Cupboards

Recommend equipping half of all K-12 labs with a fume cupboard. Preparation rooms will also require a fume cupboard. These help to remove hazardous airborne substances from practical exercises. You will also need to choose between a duct or filter system.

Lab Environment

An effective science lab that encourages learning success will also require several additional elements in the design, including:

• Acoustics – ideal background noise for labs in 40db. Take measures to reduce outside noise.
• Heating –labs should have a temperature of around 18 degrees Celsius. Air conditioning should be available to maintain a suitable temperature.
• Lighting – the lighting in a lab should not exceed 300 lux. Consider natural lighting and glare in the design as well.
• Windows – no more than 20% of an exterior wall should have glazed windows installed. Consider outside shading or blinds to prevent excessive temperatures during hot weather.
• Ventilation –labs require sufficient ventilation to ensure the average carbon dioxide levels do not exceed 1500 PPM.