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And it is these insights that can lead to elegant solutions to complex problems..

A deeper ceiling void may also introduce the need for sprinklers or fire detection systems.. 3.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.This can add many unexpected weeks or even months to a project and introduces an element of risk.

In the fast-moving life science industry this is particularly frustrating and removes much of the benefit of converting an office in the first place.The faster a lab can be designed, the faster these issues can be assessed and potentially mitigated.. Planning and other permitting matters will of course differ significantly outside the UK and a different approach will also be necessary.. 7.

Existing offices may lack sufficient common areas or can pose problems for lab material and personnel flows throughout the wider building.. Office elevators sometimes aren’t big enough to transport larger lab equipment (e.g.some automated bioreactors and liquid handlers) or HVAC and utility plant, which can only be broken down so far, and just because these items aren’t required on day one, an assessment should be made on potential future needs..