How to improve your laboratory ergonomics

February 14, 2023 | Lab Furniture

An outstanding lab design seriously takes into account the human factors or how people interact with things and space as they perform their daily lab work. Laboratory ergonomics allows your lab team to be healthy and productive.

The understanding that lab work requires long hours of great concentration, routinary tasks, and dealing with possibly hazardous materials makes ergonomics a remedy for applications that provide not only a safe and efficient workplace environment, but also job satisfaction, productivity, and employee retention. Smart lab ergonomics goes beyond the equipment furnishing and examines the way scientists complete their work. CRB Group reviewed three facility design considerations for lab ergonomics.

The first consideration is on the contributors or collaborators needed to design for quality lab ergonomics. These key individuals needed to be consulted and involved during the design process as they present a unique and valuable working perspective. These individuals are:

Laboratory design professionals (architects, engineers, interior designers)
Laboratory equipment manufacturers
Scientists and laboratory technicians
Owners and laboratory technicians
Owners and laboratory managers

The second consideration is on the lab environment and how it affects ergonomics. Every aspect of the lab design influences the people who work in the lab. This means adapting the space to the work that will take place. This encompasses air quality, light, and sound reduction.

Air Quality

Providing air quality contributes to overall health and olfactory comfort for the lab team. It also ensures proper equipment functionality. Ways to ensure air quality:

HEPA filtration in Biosafety Cabinets (BSC)
High air exchange rates
Humidity control
Well-designed lab exhaust

Light

Natural light is vital to human wellbeing as it aids healthy physical and mental health. Controlling light and temperature levels can be done with the following tips:

Glass transparency
Window shades
Electrochromic auto dim glass
Color temperature of artificial lighting and dimming controls
Ceiling height

Sound Reduction

A well modulated environment has improved acoustics and a range of sound absorption levels that help in concentration and facilitates easy communication among team members. Consider having these:

Vacuum cabinets
Different flooring types
Appropriate ceiling height and materials

Third consideration is on designing the space to improve ergonomics. Some aspects to consider include:

Location of equipment and workstations for employee movement and efficient workflow
Seating style and size and adjustable settings
Countertop height, adjustability, and design
Casework planning and accessibility of materials
Flooring options

All the aforementioned aim for a holistic approach to lab design that has an ergonomic impact to the team, allowing them to be safe, more productive and comfortable.