You’re setting up a new lab. What are the best laboratory workbenches for your space?

When setting up a new lab, the best laboratory workbenches for your space should prioritize durability, functionality, and safety. Look for workbenches made of sturdy materials like stainless steel or chemical-resistant laminates. Consider the need for storage options like drawers, cabinets, and shelves to keep equipment and supplies organized. Opt for workbenches that offer adjustable heights and ergonomic features to promote comfortable and efficient work conditions. Ensure compliance with safety standards and consider modular designs for future flexibility. Balance these factors with your budget to make the most suitable choice for your lab setup.

The best laboratory workbenches depend on the specific needs of your lab, such as the type of experiments conducted, available space, and budget. 1. Stainless steel workbenches - For Durability, resistant to corrosion and easy to clean. 2. Chemical resistant workbenches are suitable for labs working with harsh chemicals or acids. 3. Adjustable height workbenches 4. Anti-vibration workbenches which are essential for labs conducting sensitive experiments that require stability and minimal vibration interference.

Adjustable height workbenches: Consider investing in adjustable height workbenches to cater to the ergonomic needs of your lab staff. These workbenches allow users to adjust the height of the work surface, promoting proper posture and reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Adjustable height workbenches come with manual or motorized mechanisms, allowing users to switch between sitting and standing positions. Look for models with sturdy construction and smooth height adjustment mechanisms for optimal functionality.

Modular design is definitely as must. With changing testing needs and replacement of equipment as time goes by, the use of this type of furniture significantly reduces construction costs related to transition.

Modular workbenches are a versatile option for a new lab setup. These workbenches can be customized and configured to meet your specific needs. They come with adjustable shelves, drawers, and cabinets, allowing you to organize your equipment and supplies efficiently. Modular workbenches also offer flexibility in terms of size, so you can choose the dimensions that fit your space. Additionally, they often have built-in electrical outlets and wiring to support the integration of lab instruments and devices.

Ergonomic Designing Workstations These have to ensure workstations are designed for comfort and efficiency, with proper height-adjustable benches, ergonomic seating, and adequate space for movement. Equipments have to be placed strategically to minimize repetitive movements and ensure easy access, avoiding cluttered or cramped spaces.

When setting up a new lab, prioritizing ergonomics and safety is crucial in selecting the best laboratory workbench. Considering factors such as height, design, and workspace layout ensures a comfortable and safe environment for lab personnel. Ergonomically designed workbenches reduce the risk of injuries and enhance efficiency, promoting a healthier and more productive work atmosphere. Integrating safety features in the workbench selection process contributes to a secure lab environment, aligning with best practices in laboratory management for the well-being of staff and the optimization of work processes.

I’ve worked in laboratory environments where I had an assigned bench spot and in environments where all benches were floating (meaning chemists would move to different locations throughout their 10 hour protocol). I have found that a “home base” or an individualized assigned bench space allows for scientists to choose a workflow and an organizational style that works best for them. It allows for less interruptions as they have a designated place to hold materials that will be used later on. It also allows colleagues in larger labs to more easily track down their coworkers when needing to collaborate.

Consider the way samples are processed in the lab, the way each space will need to be used. Where should the hood go, where will people be standing and working on open space vs where will you put machines? What is the most efficient or practical configuration that is also flexible to adapt to new tools, research, etc. ? How will people be moving in the space - what can you put close together so that staff aren't carrying samples back and forth all the time?