In today's rapidly evolving research landscape, laboratories play a critical role in fostering innovation, discovery, and the advancement of knowledge. As we venture into new frontiers of science and technology, the need for safe, efficient, and well-designed laboratory spaces has never been more apparent. Recognizing this need, Campus Development Office (CDO), Campus Management Office (CMO), and Health, Safety and Environment Office (HSEO) have concertedly prepared a Laboratory Standard and Design Guideline to serve as a valuable resource for designers, architects, project managers, faculty, and laboratory users.
A well-planned and carefully designed laboratory not only promotes the safety of its users but also enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of the research conducted within its walls. Faculty members who use the laboratories can be assured that the facility is designed to meet their needs and that the required equipment and resources are readily available. Laboratory users also benefit from a safer and more efficient workspace, which can help to improve productivity and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries.
This Laboratory Standard and Design Guideline covers various topics, including furniture layout, ventilation, exhaust/containment equipment selection, ergonomics and waste management. It also addresses critical safety considerations, such as chemical storage, emergency response facilities, and hazard communication. By providing clear, concise, and actionable recommendations, this document aims to empower designers, project managers, architects, faculty, and users to create and maintain laboratory environments that meet or exceed the highest standards of safety and efficiency. However, this guideline may not address all the needs and requirements of some highly specialized and unique laboratories, so the design team comprised of all the aforementioned departments must be consulted at an early stage in all laboratory design projects.
In addition to providing guidance on best practices, this document also serves as a testament to HKUST’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of our staff and students. Safety is not just a priority but a core value that drives our research endeavors and defines our institutional culture.
As you read through the Laboratory Standard and Design Guideline, we encourage you to engage with the design team and your colleagues and share your insights, concerns, and suggestions. By working together, we can continue to refine and improve these guidelines, ensuring that our laboratories remain safe, efficient, and adaptive to the ever-changing needs of our research community. By following these guidelines, we are confident that HKUST will continue to thrive as a leader in scientific research and innovation, creating a lasting impact for future generations.
The new laboratory standards and design guide is now available at https://hseo.hkust.edu.hk/sm_23.