Buyers Guide to Buying the Best Laboratory Furniture
Before purchasing new laboratory furniture or replacing existing furniture, there are a few things to consider. Regulatory criteria, material, and furniture durability are a few things to keep in mind when looking for lab furniture. There are many low-cost alternatives online that may seem like a smart idea to purchase, but these low-quality options can actually become costly in the long run.
Industry
There are several industries that require a laboratory to conduct research and experiments. Each lab has its own need, purpose, and risks. It is important that the equipment and furniture purchased is specific to an industry. Are you conducting experiments with hazardous liquids or conducting analytical testing done on computer-generated models? If liquid chemicals are being studied in the lab it is ideal that your workbench is able to withstand chemical spills. Likewise, labs handle electrostatic sensitive devices (ESD) that can easily be damaged by a static discharge must be protected with ESD-safe material with proper grounding and the use of dissipative material to protect the material being handled.
Below is a list of common laboratories.
- Pharmaceutical
- Chemical
- Production
- Educational
- Manufacturing
- Research & Development
- Cleanroom
Material
The material used to construct your laboratory furniture will depend on your industry. Standard lab furniture is constructed with industrial-grade stainless steel providing a durable solution. Stainless steel is corrosion resistant, providing protection against spilled chemicals. The material used for a workstation can range from ESD laminate to chemical resistant laminate.
Available Worksurface Material
- High-Pressure Laminate
- ESD Laminate
- Stainless Steel
- Phenolic Resin
- Epoxy Resin
- Chemical Laminate
- Solid Surface
Laboratory Floor Plan
Another factor to consider in the purchase decision is the layout of the laboratory. Depending on the available space, laboratories may decide to skip the purchase of standard casework and purchase wall cabinets instead. Keep furniture specification in mind when looking for lab furniture, as it may pose a challenge when its time for installation. Modular furniture is also available allowing the lab personnel to easily move and expand their lab design.
Maintenance
Lab furniture such as countertops are vulnerable to wear and tear after repeated use. Maintenance can be as easy as a wipe down after each use with a soft cloth and avoiding the use of abrasive materials. Plastic laminate worksurface may require a commercial laminate coating and sealer to prevent staining. If you are unsure what can be used to clean your worksurface, contact the manufacturer for more information.
Accessories
Other features to consider when purchasing furniture are workstation and workbench add-ons. Adjustable workbench, overhead lighting, frame color, and heavy duty drawers are a few options available to purchase through Ezad Lab Furnishing.
Purchasing furniture does not have to be a difficult process. Follow these basic tips to choose the best furniture to suit your laboratory needs and requirements. With the right manufacturer or distributor, you can make the best decision for your laboratory.
Need help designing an efficient lab layout or selecting the best laboratory furniture? Contact us today or visit our lab furniture product catalog.