Maintaining effective laboratory workstations is vital to not only personal convenience but efficiency as well. Through the years, lab furniture manufacturers have fine-tuned designs to increase ergonomic comfort. Understanding the various options available, allows one to create a workspace that meets professional and individual needs.
There are four positive features that can change the laboratory working environment: durability, versatility, utilities, and safety. A combination of these components can help create the ideal system.
Durability
One excellent way to increase laboratory workstation durability is by using quality lab case goods. These workbenches should be resistant to typical chemicals that are commonly found in labs since it is not unusual for potentially harmful substances to spill or leak.
Versatility
Installing a strong fume hood is an effective way to make a laboratory workstation more versatile. Fume hoods are vital for ensuring labs contain breathable, fresh air. Additionally, they also help in venting out potentially toxic fumes that can be damaging to human health.
Safety
Safety in the laboratory cannot be exaggerated enough. Some valuable variables to consider would be the number of laboratory technicians working at the same time, the overall design of the room, and space for circulation. In addition to the design and flow of the space, emergency showers and eye washes should be considered as well as the availability and storage of Personal Protective Equipment.
Some items to increase safety include:
- Face masks
- Gloves
- Eye protection goggles
- Robes
Utilities
Laboratory workstations and workbenches can benefit extensively from numerous utilities. These tools for completing standard operating processes allow for increased levels of effectiveness and efficiency. Moreover, they can aid lab technicians in meeting government and/or industry regulations and standards.
Some of these beneficial utilities include glassware like fluid containers, beakers, and Petri dishes. Drying racks for the glassware should be placed above sinks, which are also an essential utility. In some cases, having abnormally deep sinks can be helpful when cleaning large objects is required for certain tasks.
If you are in the market for new laboratory furniture, contact us today to make the process easier.