Relocating a laboratory is no small feat.
This is true whether you are moving to a new space entirely or undergoing a laboratory renovation. This might be in a new building, different country, or even within your existing building. In any situation, protecting your lab equipment is vitally important.
The costly nature of lab equipment and the potential for disruption makes effective planning essential. At Aport, we are well versed in a range of strategies. We know how to ensure that your valuable instruments, machinery and materials are well protected throughout the relocation process.
Understanding the Importance of Protection
Before covering the specifics of equipment protection, it’s vital to realize the importance of safeguarding your investments.
Lab equipment can be very costly. It is also very often delicate and sensitive to environmental changes.
A well-executed relocation minimizes risks. It also helps to save time by preventing damage to equipment and delays in your work schedule.
When planning a laboratory relocation and lab design, think about the existing lab layout. It is also important to consider how it might differ in your new or renovated space.
Collaborating with a design team can be extremely beneficial in this planning phase. They can help with the flow of work, the arrangement of equipment and optimizing the efficiency of the new lab setup.
Preparing for the Move
Inventory and Assessment
Start with an inventory of all equipment, instruments and materials. Categorizing items by sensitivity and size will allow you to prioritize their protection. Key considerations include:
1. Age and Condition – Older equipment may be more fragile.
2. Value – High-value items require extra care.
3. Type of Equipment – Glass instruments, electronic devices and chemicals each pose different challenges.
Once your inventory is complete, assess each item’s mobility and protection needs. Any specialized equipment that requires a specific environmental condition must be handled with particular care.
Communication with Your Design Team
Work closely with your design team, sharing your inventory and insights about existing lab needs.
This step is critical for planning the layout in the new space or the renovated portion of your existing building.
Address potential risks early in the process, including vibrations, temperature fluctuations and humidity.
Packing and Transporting Equipment
The packing phase is one of the most critical elements in protecting lab equipment during relocation.
Use Proper Packing Materials
Investing in high-quality packing materials is essential.
Consider these options:
– Anti-static bubble wrap or foam for electronic devices.
– Glass-safe packing boxes for delicate instruments.
– Chemical-resistant containers for any hazardous materials.
Label everything clearly to avoid confusion during unpacking. Each box should indicate its contents, handling instructions and any special precautions.
Create a Packing Plan
Develop a systematic packing plan to save time. Consider packing by individual departments or functions, placing items that will be used together in the same box.
This strategy simplifies the unpacking process at your new location.
Handling Specialized Equipment
Some lab equipment requires specialized handling. Engage professionals like Aport for transporting complex machinery such as centrifuges, analytical instruments or HVAC systems. Our experts understand how to safely move sensitive equipment. This minimizes the likelihood of damage.
1. Calibration – Before transporting any sensitive instruments, ensure they are calibrated properly to confirm their functionality upon arrival.
2. Hazardous Materials – If your lab uses hazardous materials, ensure compliance with all regulations regarding transport, including labeling and securing containers against spillage.
Setting Up in the New Space
Unpacking and Examining Equipment
Once you arrive at your new or newly renovated space, take the time to unpack systematically. Start with the equipment that is critical for day-to-day operations. As you unpack, examine each item for any signs of damage that may have occurred during transport. Should there be any issues, document them thoroughly for insurance and service calls.
Installation and Calibration
Depending on the equipment, you may need experts to assist in the installation and calibration of sensitive instruments.
A design team can also help ensure that everything is set up correctly according to the layout you planned.
1. Installation – Ensure all utilities (like water, gas, and electricity) are properly installed for your equipment.
2. Calibration – Properly calibrating your equipment will ensure accurate readings, which is essential for maintaining data integrity.
Training Staff
Once everything is set up, conduct training sessions for your staff.
Familiarize them with the new layout, equipment and safety procedures. Highlight any new tools or techniques that they will need to leverage in the lab’s new configuration.
Maintaining an Ongoing Relationship with Aport
There is clearly a lot to consider. Fortunately for laboratories, Aport is able to assist with all of the above and more. We can handle the change, whilst you focus on the science.
An essential part of protecting your lab throughout refurbishment or relocation is partnering with experts like Aport.
We specialize in all aspects of lab relocations. This ranges from small transitions to large-scale projects.
Our experienced team can help guide you through the entire process. Aport’s project managers help to ensure minimal disruption and maximum protection for your equipment.
Laboratory relocations can be challenging. Through careful planning and execution, you can protect your valuable equipment and materials effectively.
Aport can help whether you’re moving to a new facility or renovating your existing lab. Our clients would confirm that you should make it a priority to involve a professional team like Aport from the beginning.
From concept to completion, we deliver seamless transitions while ensuring the safety of your instruments and efficiency of operations.
Ready to start your lab relocation journey?
Contact Aport today. Let us help you navigate this process expertly. Using our knowledge and resources protects your lab equipment and will help to optimize your new or renovated space.
Your successful lab relocation, lab renovation or lab refurbishment starts here.
