18 Mar Laboratory Fit Out – Top 8 FAQs About Setting Up a New Lab
Successful laboratory fit out requires careful planning to ensure efficiency, safety and compliance with industry standards. Whether you are establishing a research lab, industrial lab or educational facility, addressing key considerations early in the process can save time and costs.
The video below shows a visualisation prepared for clients to illustrate the proposed layout for a research and development laboratory which is designed for efficiency and equipped with mobile cabinets for flexibility.
In this guide, we answer the top 8 most frequently asked questions about setting up a new laboratory to help you create a functional and future-proof workspace.
1. What Are the Key Design Considerations for a Lab Fit Out
- Optimise workflow efficiency with clearly defined work zones for preparation, experimentation and analysis.
- Ensure adequate ventilation, lighting and safety measures.
- Plan for future expansion with flexible modular layouts and mobile lab furniture.
- Choose durable, chemical-resistant lab worktops such as Trespa or epoxy resin.
2. How Much Lab Space Do I Need & How To Allocate It?
- Allocate dedicated areas for sample prep, analysis and storage.
- Maintain clear walkways and emergency exits.
- Consider the space required for specialist equipment, whitegoods and fume cupboards.
3. Fitting Out a Laboratory – What Standards Must I Meet?
A professional lab fit-out provider can help navigate compliance standards.
4. How Much Does It Cost to Set Up a New Laboratory?
The cost of setting up a new laboratory varies depending on factors such as lab size, industry requirements, level of customisation and compliance standards.
Case Study Example Cost for Large Lab with High Spec Fit Out
Project Outline:-
- 286 sq m empty aircraft hangar converted for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Engineering Facility
- Co-ordinated fit out of lab furniture, fixtures, fittings, HVAC & specialist gases
- Technical solution for 5 high specification labs & access corridor
- Created a controlled working environment including 4 positive pressure labs
- AFC Energy Total Project value:- £1.15m
5. What Materials Should Be Used for Lab Furniture & Worktops?
Select robust lab worktop materials suited to your requirements for enhanced durability and longevity.
6. What Ventilation and Extraction Systems Are Required?
- Install fume cupboards to ensure a safe, efficient and reliable laboratory environment.
- Use laminar flow cabinets for contamination-sensitive work.
- Ensure standards are met for laboratory ventilation.
- Check requirements for pressurising air in specialist labs to maintain a clean environment.
7. What Are the Essential Utilities and Services Needed?
- Check on power supply to the building to ensure sufficient infrastructure.
- Install water supply points and emergency eyewash stations.
- Plan for gas (nitrogen, oxygen, CO₂ etc.) and plumbing services.
- Set up secure networking and IT infrastructure.
- Ensure an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) for sensitive equipment.
8. How Long Does It Take to Complete a Laboratory Fit Out?
- Simple laboratory refurbishments: 6-12 weeks
- New-build lab fit-outs: 3-6 months
Factors affecting timelines:
- Permissions & approvals
- Custom furniture and equipment lead times
- Construction & installation complexity
Setting up a laboratory involves careful planning across design, compliance, costs and equipment selection. By addressing these frequently asked questions early in the process, you can ensure a safe, efficient and future-proof laboratory space.
Klick are a trusted provider of laboratory design and fitout services with over 40 years of industry experience. Our positive testimonials speak for themselves.
Testimonial
Highly trustworthy and informative throughout with an amazing end product that everyone is happy with.
I would highly recommend and am now using Klick again for our steel structure on the next phase. Thank you again!”
Tony Havvas – JPL Flavours Ltd
Need expert guidance on your laboratory design and fit out? Contact Klick Technology today!
Call 0161 998 9726 or contact us by email to arrange a consultation.