Designing High-Density Shelving for Biological Tissue Storage
Storing donated human tissue demands specialized solutions. Facilities must balance high-density capacity, strict environmental controls, and robust protection against incidental moisture. This guide explores the design process for a safe, efficient biological storage system, using a real-world case study from New Horizon, a tissue bank that partnered with Labs USA and Metro. The core challenges were to maximize storage density, mitigate water risks, and ensure the system could be relocated in the future.
Project Requirements and Risk Profile
The project began with a clear set of requirements to address current storage challenges and future operational needs. Each requirement was tied to a specific risk, from sample damage to inefficient use of space.
Maximizing Storage Density
The primary goal was to increase storage capacity within the existing footprint. New Horizon selected high-density mobile shelving on tracks. This system eliminates static aisles between each row of shelves, compacting the units together and creating a single, movable aisle. This approach can double storage capacity compared to traditional static shelving.
Mitigating Moisture Risks
A previous incident involving an overhead equipment leak damaged valuable tissue inventory. To prevent this from happening again, the new system required a solid metal top cover. This feature acts as a shield, deflecting drips from pipes or ceiling-mounted equipment away from the stored samples below.
Optimizing Shelf and Bin Size
The facility was upgrading from 16-inch deep shelves to 24-inch deep shelves. This change allows them to store larger storage bins two-deep, making more efficient use of the available space. This deeper profile is a key feature of modern laboratory shelving systems designed for bulk biologicals.
Adding Containment Features
To further protect inventory, the design included side guards and containment ledges. Side guards on all exposed sides prevent bins or boxes from falling off the shelves during carriage movement. Containment ledges on each shelf tier help contain minor spills and limit liquid migration to lower levels.
Ensuring Future Flexibility
A critical requirement was that the entire system must be relocatable. New Horizon planned to move to a new facility within one to two years. The chosen mobile shelving system is modular, meaning it can be disassembled, moved, and reassembled at the new location, protecting the initial investment.
Layout and Track Strategy
The proposed layout consisted of a four-section system. The main storage area would use a high-density track measuring 27 feet and 11.5 inches long. This single track would support three rolling shelving sections, providing approximately 396 inches (33 feet) of linear storage space.
The track itself was specified in seven-foot modules. This modular approach simplifies installation and aligns with the rolling unit dimensions, making future expansion or reconfiguration more straightforward. The plan also allowed for static bays of complementary laboratory shelving systems for frequently accessed materials.
Moisture-Mitigated Features in Detail
The design focused on practical solutions for everyday water risks. While a fire sprinkler activation remains an uncontrollable event, the system effectively mitigates more common threats.
The solid metal top cover is the first line of defense against overhead leaks from plumbing, HVAC units, or other equipment.
Below the top cover, containment ledges on each shelf tier provide a secondary barrier. These small raised edges can contain a small spill from a single container, preventing it from spreading across the shelf or dripping onto samples below. The use of durable wire lab shelving with these accessories offers a robust, multi-layered solution.
Vendor Collaboration and System Fit
To ensure the solution met the specific demands of a laboratory environment, Labs USA partnered with Metro, a leading manufacturer of lab-grade mobile systems. Metro provided expert guidance on track spacing, carriage mechanics, and material specifications suitable for biological storage.
The collaboration relied on detailed drawings and site photos shared between the client, Labs USA, and Metro. This visual coordination was crucial for finalizing the configuration before any equipment was ordered. This integrated approach ensures all pieces of laboratory furniture work together as a cohesive system.
The Importance of Field Verification
To prevent costly ordering errors, the client committed to performing on-site field verification. Before giving final approval, the New Horizon team used a tape measure to confirm all critical dimensions. They double-checked the available length, depth, and ceiling clearances in the storage room. This simple step is vital for ensuring the system fits as planned and avoids installation delays.
Communication Agility and Problem-Solving
Even the best-laid plans can encounter small hurdles. During a critical planning meeting, a technical issue prevented a key participant from joining the video conference. Instead of postponing, the team adapted quickly. They switched to a phone call and used shared visual aids to keep the discussion moving forward. This agile communication prevented delays and demonstrated a commitment to collaborative problem-solving.
System Specification Summary
This table summarizes the key components and their purpose in the New Horizon biological tissue storage project.
| Component | Spec / Option | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Track | 27′-11½″ primary run; 7′ modules | High-density carriage movement and future expansion |
| Shelf Depth | 24 inches | Accommodate larger bins; reduce wasted space |
| Top Cover | Metal sheet | Mitigate overhead moisture from equipment |
| Side Guards | All exposed sides | Prevent falls during movement |
| Containment Ledges | Per shelf tier | Limit liquid migration; protect inventory |
| Modularity | Relocatable sections | Disassemble/reassemble for future moves |
Conclusion
The collaboration between New Horizon, Labs USA, and Metro resulted in a high-density mobile shelving solution perfectly tailored to the unique needs of biological tissue storage. The final design successfully increases storage capacity, improves resilience to incidental moisture, and preserves flexibility for a future facility move. By focusing on detailed requirements, collaborative design, and careful verification, the team created a system that protects valuable assets while optimizing lab space.
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