SEFA standards Archives

A Practical Guide to Lab Wall Shelving

December 8, 2025December 9, 2025 Marketing Manager

Lab wall shelving is a key part of a safe, efficient, and compliant laboratory. It acts as the framework that supports daily workflow. Good shelving helps prevent contamination, reduces accidents, and makes the most of available space.

Choosing the right shelving system has a large impact. It affects how quickly your team finds supplies and how well you meet safety rules. A solid shelving strategy is an investment in your lab’s success.

Key Takeaways on Lab Wall Shelving

Choose the Right System: Pick from fixed, adjustable, or cantilever shelving based on what you store and if your needs change.
Select Durable Materials: Your choice of epoxy-coated steel, stainless steel, or phenolic resin depends on chemical exposure and cleaning needs.
Follow a 5-Step Checklist: Assess storage needs, check your wall space, define usage, pick materials, and plan a safe installation.
Prioritize Safety: Always match mounting hardware to your wall type and never exceed the load capacity of the wall or shelves.
Consider Use Cases: The best shelving for a teaching lab is different from what a pharmaceutical QC lab needs. Match the solution to the environment.

This guide will walk you through the critical factors for choosing a system that fits your lab’s needs. The North American market for lab furniture is expected to reach USD 2.50 billion by 2032. This growth shows the push for smarter, more optimized lab spaces.

Making a smart choice now is an investment in your lab’s future. You can learn more in our guide on how labs find the right equipment and furniture.

Exploring Different Lab Wall Shelving Systems

Not all lab shelving is the same. Each type is engineered to solve a specific storage problem. One system might be for organizing uniform chemical containers. Another might support long pieces of equipment.

Understanding the differences between shelving systems is the first step. This knowledge helps create a lab that is both organized and efficient. Let’s review the most common systems to find the perfect match for your workflow.

Organized laboratory wall with wooden shelves, blue metal supports, a long workbench, and lab supplies.

Fixed Wall Shelving

Fixed shelving is the most straightforward and permanent option. These systems have shelves that are bolted or welded directly to their support brackets. This creates a rigid construction that is very strong and stable.

Fixed shelving is like built-in bookcases. Once installed, they do not move. This makes them perfect for storing items with consistent sizes that you do not expect to change. Examples include standard reagent bottles or bulk boxes of supplies. Their main benefit is high load capacity, but they offer no flexibility.

Adjustable Wall Shelving

Adjustable shelving is a popular choice for modern labs because it is flexible. These systems use vertical tracks mounted to the wall. Brackets hook into these tracks, allowing you to move shelves up or down as your needs change.

This adaptability is very helpful in dynamic lab environments. One day you may need space for small containers. The next day you might need to fit a new, taller piece of equipment. With adjustable lab shelves, you can reconfigure your storage easily. It is a practical, long-term solution.

Cantilever Shelving Systems

Cantilever systems are a unique solution for storing long, bulky, or awkwardly shaped items. Standard shelving has vertical supports at the front and back. Cantilever shelves extend from a central column on heavy-duty support arms.

This open-front design gives you clear horizontal storage. It is the ideal setup for items like piping, tubing, or long instruments. These items would not fit on a conventional shelf. Cantilever shelving is built to handle serious weight. This makes it essential for special storage challenges.

Comparing Common Shelving Options

Choosing the right type of lab wall shelving depends on what you need to store and how often your needs might change. Each system offers distinct advantages. The table below breaks down the key differences between these common types of lab shelving.

Shelving Type	Key Feature	Ideal Application	Flexibility	Typical Load Capacity
Fixed	Permanent, high-strength mounting	Storing items of uniform size, archive samples	Low	High to Very High
Adjustable	Movable shelves on vertical tracks	Dynamic labs with changing storage needs	High	Medium to High
Cantilever	Open-front design with support arms	Long, bulky, or oversized items and equipment	Medium	Very High

After reviewing these options, you will have a clearer idea of which system will best support your work. For a broader look at storage solutions, this ultimate guide to storage cabinets offers insights into materials and customization.

How to Choose the Right Shelving Materials

Picking the right material for your lab’s wall shelving is a critical decision. The right choice will perform well for years. The wrong choice can risk corrosion, contamination, and even failure. The material you select is your defense against harsh chemicals and daily use.

This choice is not just about appearance. It is a basic part of your lab’s safety and operation. Regulatory standards for chemical and sample storage are becoming tougher. This is why the right material choice is so important.

Common Materials for Lab Shelving

Every material has trade-offs between durability, chemical resistance, and cost. Finding the right balance for your application is key to a great lab layout. Let’s review the main options.

Epoxy-Coated Steel: This is a common choice for general-purpose labs. It has a tough steel base with a baked-on epoxy powder coat. This finish resists scratches, impacts, and moderate chemical spills. It is a solid, budget-friendly option. However, it is not ideal for constant exposure to highly corrosive chemicals.
Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is the best choice for labs handling aggressive chemicals, sterile processes, or biological materials. Its non-porous surface is very resistant to corrosion, rust, and heat. It is also easy to clean and sterilize. You often see it in cleanrooms, pharmaceutical labs, and food science facilities.
Phenolic Resin: This is a high-tech composite material. It is made by layering kraft papers saturated in phenolic resin. These layers are then fused under intense heat and pressure. The result is a dense, durable material that resists a wide range of chemicals, moisture, and bacteria. We explain more about this material in our guide on the importance of phenolic resins.

Matching Materials to Your Environment

The best material for your lab wall shelving depends on your daily work. A university teaching lab has different needs than a sterile pharmaceutical cleanroom. This table shows the key differences to help you choose.

Material	Chemical Resistance	Durability	Cleanroom Suitability	Relative Cost
Epoxy-Coated Steel	Good	High	Limited	Low
Stainless Steel	Excellent	Very High	Excellent	High
Phenolic Resin	Excellent	Very High	Good	Medium

If your lab’s protocols require frequent cleaning with aggressive sterilizing agents, stainless steel is the most reliable long-term option. It is built for that kind of use.

For labs where metal surfaces could interfere with sensitive electronic equipment, phenolic resin offers a non-conductive alternative. It provides high performance without metallic interference.

If budget is the main concern and your work involves only mild chemicals, epoxy-coated steel is a smart, economical choice. The goal is to match the material’s strengths with your lab’s specific needs.

A 5-Step Checklist for Picking Lab Wall Shelving

Choosing the right shelving system can seem like a big task. Breaking it down into key steps makes it more manageable. This checklist is a practical guide to help you make a final decision. By following these five steps, you will cover all your bases and pick the lab wall shelving that fits your lab’s workflow.

Step 1: Figure Out Your Storage Needs

Before looking at products, start with what you have. You need a clear picture of what will be on the shelves. This inventory will guide every other decision you make.

Ask yourself these questions:

What am I storing? List everything, including glassware, chemical bottles, small instruments, and consumables.
How big and heavy is it? Measure your largest items and estimate the total weight you will put on a single shelf.
Does anything need special handling? Note if you are storing items that are light-sensitive, hazardous, or need specific temperatures.

Step 2: Take a Hard Look at Your Space

Next, analyze the wall where you want to hang the shelves. The wall’s construction is a critical safety factor. It determines what kind of system it can support.

Find the answers to these questions:

What is this wall made of? Is it drywall, concrete block, or brick? Does it have wood or steel studs?
How much room do I have? Measure the total width and height you can use for shelving.
What is in the way? Look for outlets, light switches, pipes, or vents that you need to work around.

Step 3: Define How You’ll Use the Shelves

With your inventory list and wall measurements, think about the day-to-day workflow. How will your team use these shelves? Good shelving makes work smoother and prepares you for future needs.

Consider these points:

Do you need flexibility? If you store items of different sizes, adjustable shelving is likely the best choice.
What is your cleaning routine? For labs with strict sterilization rules, you will need non-porous materials like stainless steel.
What is the budget? Be realistic about what you can spend. Many institutions may have pre-negotiated deals, like the Utah state contract for lab shelving and storage, which can help reduce costs.

Step 4: Pick Your Materials and System Type

Now, match your needs to actual products. Use the information from the first three steps to choose the right material and shelving type. For example, if you are storing heavy, corrosive chemicals, stainless steel is a better choice than epoxy-coated steel.

A common mistake is choosing a material based on cost alone. Always prioritize chemical compatibility and durability to ensure long-term safety.

Step 5: Plan for a Safe Installation

Finally, plan the installation. Proper mounting is essential for safety. Decide if your own facilities team can do the job or if you need to hire a professional. Double-check that the hardware is rated for both the shelving system’s weight and your wall type. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation guide exactly.

Installation Best Practices and Safety

An improperly installed lab wall shelving system is a safety hazard. Proper installation is critical for your team’s safety and the security of your materials. It ensures the shelving performs as designed and holds its maximum rated load without risk.

Man wearing safety glasses installs a white shelf on a wall-mounted track system using a level.

This process begins before you drill the first hole. It starts with understanding your wall’s structure and choosing the right hardware for that material.

Mounting Shelves Securely

The wall’s structural integrity is the foundation of a safe shelving setup. You must match your installation technique and hardware to the wall material.

Drywall with Wood Studs: Use a stud finder to locate the studs. Your shelving standards must be anchored directly into the center of these wooden supports. Do not use drywall anchors alone for heavy lab loads.
Drywall with Steel Studs: This requires specialized hardware like snap toggles or heavy-duty toggle bolts. These anchors brace against the back of the steel stud for a stronger hold.
Concrete Block or Brick: For these walls, you will need masonry sleeve anchors or wedge anchors. They expand inside the drilled hole, creating a secure connection for heavy loads. Use a hammer drill with a proper masonry bit.

Always consult the manufacturer’s installation manual. It will specify the exact type and size of fastener you need. Deviating from these instructions can void your warranty and create a safety hazard.

Wall Capacity and Proper Hardware

Before installing, you need to verify the wall’s load-bearing capacity. If you have any doubt, consult a structural engineer or your facility’s maintenance manager. Overloading a wall can lead to a collapse.

Using the right mounting hardware is not optional. A common mistake is using generic screws that are not rated for the combined weight of the shelving and its contents. This can compromise the entire system. You can learn more about quality control from general construction quality control checklists.

Ongoing Maintenance

Once your shelves are up, they need routine maintenance to stay safe.

Regular Visual Inspections: Once a month, check for signs of sagging shelves, brackets pulling away from the wall, or loose fasteners.
Fastener Checks: Every six months, test the fasteners to ensure they are still tight. Do not overtighten them.
Load Distribution: Place heavier items closer to the support brackets to minimize stress on the shelf.

The wall-mounted shelves market was valued at USD 2.9 billion in 2021. This market is expected to grow, driven by sectors like labs where safety is a top priority. If you see signs of instability, call a professional installer immediately.

7 Decision Scenarios for Choosing Lab Shelving

The ideal shelving solution varies greatly depending on the lab’s specific function. These seven mini guides illustrate how different environments lead to different shelving choices. Use these examples to clarify the best option for your own workspace.

1. The University Teaching Lab

Challenge: High-traffic environment with heavy use by students. Needs durable, budget-friendly storage for basic glassware and reagent kits. Minor spills are common.
Solution: Adjustable epoxy-coated steel shelving. It is tough, cost-effective, and resists mild chemicals. The adjustability accommodates changing curriculum needs each semester.

2. The Pharmaceutical QC Lab

Challenge: A sterile cGMP environment requiring surfaces that can be aggressively sanitized daily. Storage is for analytical standards and sterile media. Contamination control is the top priority.
Solution: Fixed 316-grade stainless steel shelving. The non-porous, corrosion-proof surface withstands harsh cleaning agents. The fixed design minimizes crevices where contaminants could hide.

3. The Biotech R&D Lab

Challenge: A dynamic space with constantly changing projects. Needs to store a mix of heavy equipment, bulk reagents, and long tubing. Maximizing vertical space is critical.
Solution: A hybrid system. Adjustable phenolic resin shelving for general storage offers chemical resistance and high load capacity. A separate section of steel cantilever shelving handles the long, bulky items.

4. The Clinical Diagnostics Lab

Challenge: Fast-paced workflow requiring quick access to a high volume of small consumables, sample racks, and reagents. Organization and efficiency are key to managing test turnaround times.
Solution: High-density adjustable shelving. Using narrower shelves spaced closer together maximizes storage for small items. Clear labeling and bin systems are essential for inventory management.

5. The Materials Science Lab

Challenge: Storage for heavy material samples, crucibles, and testing apparatus. Some materials may be abrasive or require storage away from metallic surfaces.
Solution: Heavy-duty phenolic resin shelving. This material is non-conductive, scratch-resistant, and can handle significant weight, making it ideal for dense samples and equipment.

6. The Environmental Testing Lab

Challenge: Storing a wide variety of sample containers, from small vials to large carboys. Shelves must withstand potential spills of acids, bases, and organic solvents used in sample preparation.
Solution: Adjustable stainless steel shelving. This provides the highest level of chemical resistance across a broad range of substances. Adjustability allows for easy reconfiguration as sample types and sizes change. For labs needing even more space, mobile shelving can also be an effective solution.

7. The Electronics Cleanroom Lab

Challenge: A static-sensitive environment where shelving must not generate or hold an electrical charge. Particle generation must be minimal.
Solution: Electropolished stainless steel shelving with grounding connections. The ultra-smooth, non-shedding surface is ideal for cleanrooms. Proper grounding is essential to protect sensitive electronic components.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lab Wall Shelving

Here we address common questions about lab wall shelving, from industry standards to installation and daily care. Our goal is to provide clear answers so you can move forward with confidence.

1. What are SEFA standards for shelving?

SEFA, the Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association, sets performance benchmarks for lab furniture. Shelving is typically evaluated under SEFA 8, which covers lab casework systems. SEFA 8 compliance means the shelf can hold a specific weight (often 40 pounds per square foot) without failing, has proven chemical resistance, and features a durable finish.

2. How do I calculate the right load capacity?

First, estimate the total weight you plan to put on one shelf. Add a 25% safety buffer to your calculation. If you expect 80 pounds of supplies, choose a shelf rated for at least 100 pounds. Always place the heaviest items closest to the support brackets. Most importantly, verify the wall’s load-bearing capacity with your facility manager before installation.

3. Can I install this shelving myself?

For simple shelves in wood studs, an experienced facilities team may be sufficient. For heavy-duty systems, cantilever shelving, or walls made of concrete or steel studs, it is best to hire professional installers. They have the correct tools and expertise to ensure a safe installation.

4. What is the best way to clean different shelf materials?

Cleaning methods depend on the material.

Epoxy-Coated Steel: Use a mild detergent and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the coating.
Stainless Steel: A soft cloth with soap and water or a specialized stainless steel cleaner works well. It can often handle diluted bleach or alcohol for sterilization.
Phenolic Resin: This material is very durable and can be cleaned with a wide range of detergents, disinfectants, and even acetone for stubborn residues.

5. Do I need special shelving for a cleanroom?

Yes. Cleanroom shelving must minimize particle generation and be easy to sterilize. Stainless steel is the standard material due to its non-porous surface and corrosion resistance. Look for shelving with solid, seamless surfaces to prevent particles from accumulating. Always ensure the shelving meets your cleanroom’s specific ISO classification.

6. What is the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel?

Both are common choices for labs, but 316 stainless steel contains molybdenum. This addition gives it superior resistance to chlorides and other specific corrosive agents. For labs using strong acids or saline solutions, 316 is the safer choice. For general-purpose labs, 304 is usually sufficient.

7. How far apart should I space the wall standards or tracks?

Follow the manufacturer’s specifications. A common spacing for wall standards is 16 or 24 inches to align with standard stud placement. Placing them farther apart than recommended will reduce the shelving system’s overall load capacity and is a safety risk.

8. Are wire shelves a good option for labs?

Wire shelves can be useful in some lab areas, particularly for storage rooms or autoclaves, as they promote air circulation. However, they are not ideal for general lab work. Spills can fall through to lower shelves, and the wire grid can be difficult to clean thoroughly. Solid surfaces are better for most lab applications.

Planning Your Next Steps

We have covered the most critical factors for choosing the right lab wall shelving. A well-planned shelving system is an investment in your lab’s productivity and safety.

By systematically evaluating your needs, you can build an organized environment that supports your team’s work. Use the insights from this guide to make confident decisions for your facility. When you are ready, our team is here to help you find the perfect fit for your specific application.

Compare your lab wall shelving options or request a quote today. Contact Us

A Guide to Laboratory Casework

November 10, 2025 Marketing Manager

Laboratory casework is the system of cabinets, work surfaces, and storage units that serves as the functional backbone of any scientific space. This is not just furniture. It is the durable, organized, and safe infrastructure built to handle experiments, equipment, and chemical storage. This foundational equipment is purpose-built to withstand the demanding conditions found in a lab.

TL;DR: Your Guide to Laboratory Casework

What It Is: Laboratory casework is the specialized system of cabinets, countertops, and storage designed for scientific environments. It must be durable, chemical-resistant, and safe.

Key Materials: The main options are painted steel, stainless steel, wood, and phenolic resin. The best choice depends on your lab's specific chemical use, budget, and need for sterile conditions.

Safety Standards: Look for SEFA 8 compliance. This certification ensures the casework has passed rigorous tests for load capacity, chemical resistance, and durability. Also, consider OSHA, ADA, and local fire codes.

Layout is Key: Choose between fixed casework (permanent) and modular casework (flexible). A good layout improves workflow, safety, and efficiency.

Maintenance Matters: Proper installation and a consistent cleaning plan extend the life of your casework and keep your lab safe.

What Is Laboratory Casework?

A modern laboratory with white laboratory casework, countertops, and advanced scientific equipment.

Laboratory casework is the essential foundation for everything that happens in your lab. It is more than standard cabinets and counters. This is a specialized system, engineered to support your processes and workflow. Unlike furniture for a home or office, it is designed for chemical resistance, heavy loads, and safety.

The main role of casework is to create a workspace that is organized, efficient, and compliant with industry standards. You achieve this by combining different, specialized components that work together.

Key Components and Their Functions

When you specify the right casework, you directly improve your lab's productivity and safety. The global market for laboratory cabinets reflects this importance. It is a growing industry because of the need for high-quality storage solutions in research and development.

Let’s review the main elements:

Base Cabinets: These are the workhorses. They form the foundation that supports countertops and provide the bulk of your storage for equipment and supplies.
Wall Cabinets: Mounted above work areas, these are ideal for keeping frequently used items within easy reach. This helps keep your countertops clear and organized.
Countertops: This is where work happens. These primary work surfaces are made from materials chosen for their ability to resist chemicals, heat, and scratches.
Specialty Storage Units: This category includes everything from dedicated acid and flammable safety cabinets to tall storage units for bulky items.

Each piece plays a part in creating a smooth workflow. Once you understand how these components function, you can see how they form a high-performance system. The full range of laboratory casework solutions includes options for every application, from schools to advanced research facilities. This integrated approach ensures every part of your lab is optimized for safety and performance.

Choosing the Right Casework Materials

Different samples of laboratory casework materials, including steel, stainless steel, wood, and phenolic resin, arranged for comparison.

Selecting the right material for your lab casework is a critical decision. This choice affects safety, durability, and your budget. It is about more than appearance, since each material is engineered for specific scientific work.

The four main materials in modern labs are painted steel, stainless steel, wood, and phenolic resin. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each is key to building a lab that performs well.

Painted Steel Casework

For many general lab applications, painted steel is a popular choice. It is built from heavy-gauge steel that gets a tough, chemical-resistant, powder-coat finish. This process creates a smooth, non-porous surface that is easy to clean.

Steel provides excellent strength. It handles heavy equipment and stands up to the daily use of a busy lab. Also, it is non-combustible, which adds a layer of fire safety. This mix of strength, affordability, and reliability makes it a solid choice for university chemistry labs and industrial quality control facilities.

Stainless Steel Casework

When your work requires sterile conditions and resistance to harsh chemicals, stainless steel is the top choice. It is common in pharmaceutical, biological, and medical research labs. Its non-porous surface prevents bacteria and other contaminants from growing.

Stainless steel resists a wide range of chemicals, heat, and moisture, making it very durable and simple to sterilize. While it costs more initially, the investment provides longevity and performance in critical applications. You can explore the specifics of our stainless steel laboratory casework to see if it is the right fit for your environment.

Wood Casework

Wood casework brings a classic, traditional feel to a lab. However, this is not standard kitchen cabinetry. Modern lab-grade wood is treated with a specialized chemical-resistant finish to protect against spills and damage. It is a popular choice for its appearance in school labs, dry labs, and doctors' offices where aggressive chemicals are not used daily.

Wood casework provides good structural integrity and can be a budget-friendly option. However, it is not the right fit for labs with high humidity or where strong acids and solvents are used regularly. Those conditions can damage the finish and the wood itself over time.

Phenolic Resin Casework

Phenolic resin is a high-tech composite engineered for tough lab conditions. It's made by layering resin-soaked papers and fusing them together with intense heat and pressure. The result is a solid, durable panel that resists chemicals, moisture, and bacteria.

This material is a great choice for any lab that is frequently wet or deals with corrosive materials. It will not rust, warp, or delaminate. This makes it a long-term solution for biology, chemistry, and clinical labs where conditions can be demanding.

How to Choose a Casework Material: A 5-Step Checklist

Use this checklist to select the best material for your lab's needs.

Analyze Chemical Use: List all chemicals, solvents, and cleaning agents used in the lab. Note their concentrations and frequency of use. This determines the required level of chemical resistance.
Evaluate Moisture Levels: Determine if the area will be consistently wet, humid, or dry. Phenolic resin and stainless steel excel in wet environments, while wood is best for dry labs.
Assess Sterility Needs: If your work requires sterile or particle-free conditions (like in cleanrooms or biological labs), non-porous stainless steel is the best option.
Consider Durability and Impact: Think about the daily physical demands. Steel offers high durability for industrial or high-traffic settings. Phenolic resin also resists impact well.
Set Your Budget: Balance upfront costs with long-term value. Steel and wood are often more budget-friendly initially, while stainless steel and phenolic resin are premium materials that offer superior longevity in harsh conditions.

Comparing Laboratory Casework Materials

Which material is right for you? It is always a balance between performance and budget. To make it easier, here is a side-by-side comparison.

Material	Chemical Resistance	Durability	Cost	Best For
Painted Steel	Good	High	$$	General purpose, industrial, and educational labs.
Stainless Steel	Excellent	Very High	$$$$	Sterile environments, cleanrooms, and medical labs.
Wood	Fair to Good	Medium	$	Dry labs, educational settings, and office areas.
Phenolic Resin	Excellent	High	$$$	Wet labs, high-moisture areas, and chemical labs.

Use this table as a starting point. By matching your lab's daily activities with these material profiles, you can make a choice that will serve you reliably for years.

Meeting Critical Lab Safety Standards

A scientist in a lab coat and safety glasses working at a bench with properly organized laboratory casework.

In any lab, safety and compliance are strict requirements. These standards protect your team, ensure research integrity, and help your facility pass inspections. For laboratory casework, this means choosing products built to handle the demands of a scientific environment.

Understanding the key standards that govern casework is the first step toward a smart investment.

The Role of SEFA in Laboratory Casework

The Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association (SEFA) is the leading authority for lab furniture performance standards. If casework is SEFA 8 compliant, it means it has passed intense tests that mimic real-world lab conditions.

These tests measure several critical factors:

Load Capacity: This confirms that cabinets, shelves, and work surfaces can safely hold heavy equipment without failing.
Finish Performance: The finish is exposed to a list of common lab chemicals to evaluate its resistance to corrosion and degradation.
Cabinet Construction: Moving parts like drawers, doors, and hardware are tested for durability to ensure they can withstand constant use.

Specifying SEFA-compliant casework is the most direct way to ensure your furniture meets a high standard for safety, durability, and quality.

Other Key Compliance Considerations

SEFA is important, but other regulations also play a role in creating a safe lab. Well-designed casework helps you meet these requirements. A practical guide to implementing health and safety management systems provides a solid framework for maintaining a secure environment.

Here are a few other key regulations to consider:

OSHA Standards: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has clear rules for workplace safety, including how hazardous materials must be stored. This is why dedicated laboratory safety cabinets for flammable or corrosive chemicals are necessary for compliance.
ADA Requirements: The Americans with Disabilities Act ensures labs are accessible to everyone. This influences casework design, from adjustable-height workbenches to ensuring enough clearance between benches for wheelchair access.
Fire and Building Codes: Local and national fire codes often affect the types of materials you can use. For example, steel casework is often preferred because it is non-combustible, adding another layer of fire safety.

By planning for these standards from the beginning, you ensure your casework supports your work and creates a secure, compliant facility for your team.

Optimizing Your Laboratory Layout

A well-planned laboratory layout with clean lines, showing efficient use of space and organized casework.

Great laboratory casework is only part of the solution. To create a high-performing workspace, that casework needs to fit into a smart, efficient layout. A good plan can improve productivity, enhance safety, and prepare your lab for future needs.

A well-designed layout does more than fill a room. It creates a functional ecosystem. It considers how people move, where supplies are stored, and how utilities are routed.

Fixed Versus Modular Casework

One of the first major decisions in layout design is choosing between fixed and modular casework. Both provide work surfaces and storage, but their impact on your lab’s future is very different.

Fixed casework is the traditional option. It is permanently installed and secured to the floor or walls. It is known for its stability and is a great choice for labs where processes are well-defined and unlikely to change.

Modular casework is built for adaptability. It consists of freestanding units that can be moved, reconfigured, or added to as your needs change. That flexibility is valuable in fast-paced research environments. If you expect any growth or change, exploring modular lab benches is a smart way to future-proof your space.

The laboratory testing services market is growing quickly. According to The Business Research Company's market report, this growth is driven by new technology and a greater demand for precision. A modular layout gives you the agility to adapt without a costly renovation.

Core Principles of an Efficient Layout

Beyond the fixed or modular choice, a few core principles are essential for good lab design.

Follow the Workflow: Arrange workstations to mirror your key processes. A logical sequence minimizes wasted steps and keeps materials moving smoothly.
Provide Adequate Space: Ensure there is plenty of clearance between benches and equipment. This is crucial for safe movement and is often required by safety and accessibility codes.
Use Smart Storage: Place storage where it is needed most. Frequently used items should be within arm's reach, while bulk supplies can be stored in less central locations.
Prioritize Safety: Create clear, unobstructed pathways. Safety equipment like eyewash stations, showers, and fire extinguishers must be easy to see and access.

Decision Scenarios: Which Casework is Right?

Here are five common scenarios to help illustrate how to choose the best casework for different applications.

University Teaching Lab: This lab sees hundreds of students. The casework must handle constant use and minor spills of various chemicals.
- Best Choice: Painted steel casework with phenolic resin countertops. Steel is durable, easy to clean, and budget-friendly. Phenolic tops offer excellent resistance to chemicals and moisture.
Pharmaceutical R&D Lab: This lab develops new drugs. Projects change quickly and equipment is upgraded often. The space must be sterile and adaptable.
- Best Choice: Modular stainless steel casework. Stainless steel is non-porous and easy to sanitize, making it ideal for sterile applications. The modular design allows the team to reconfigure the layout as research priorities shift.
Clinical Diagnostics Lab: This hospital lab runs tests 24/7. The work involves biological samples and many reagents. The environment must be hygienic and efficient.
- Best Choice: Phenolic resin or stainless steel casework with epoxy resin tops. Both casework options resist moisture and bacteria. Epoxy resin countertops create a seamless, durable surface that holds up to harsh disinfectants.
Dry Electronics Lab: This lab assembles and tests sensitive electronic components. There are no wet chemicals, but surfaces must be static-dissipative.
- Best Choice: Wood or steel casework with ESD laminate countertops. Since chemical resistance is not a concern, affordable wood or steel casework is a good fit. The critical feature here is the specialty ESD (electrostatic dissipative) work surface.
Industrial Quality Control Lab: This lab tests product samples using heavy machinery and moderate chemicals. Durability and load capacity are the top priorities.
- Best Choice: Fixed painted steel casework with epoxy resin countertops. The fixed steel base provides maximum stability for heavy equipment. Epoxy tops offer a good balance of chemical resistance and durability for this environment.

Integrating Utilities and Planning in 3D

Modern labs rely on a complex network of utilities, including power, data, gas, and water. Integrating these services into your casework is key to a clean and safe workspace. Service spines and overhead carriers keep cords and hoses off the floor, eliminating trip hazards.

Before installation, using 3D models and CAD drawings is a critical final check. These detailed plans allow you to take a virtual tour of the finished lab. This is where you can spot potential problems, such as a cabinet door that cannot open fully. This planning phase, often confirmed with detailed shop drawings, helps you catch expensive mistakes before they happen.

For a deeper dive into technical details, review our complete guide on laboratory casework specifications.

Installation and Long-Term Casework Care

https://www.youtube.com/embed/jBH29WzS8jQ

Proper installation and routine care are critical for safety, compliance, and longevity. A proactive approach protects your investment and keeps your workspace in top condition.

Professional installation is the first step. It ensures every cabinet is level, securely anchored, and stable enough for heavy equipment. It also guarantees that utility connections for gas, water, and power are handled correctly and safely.

Creating a Casework Maintenance Plan

A consistent maintenance routine is the best defense against wear and tear. Different materials require different care, so your plan should be tailored to your lab's equipment.

A solid maintenance plan includes three key actions:

Routine Cleaning: Use appropriate, non-abrasive cleaners recommended for your casework material.
Regular Inspections: Periodically check for signs of wear, loose hardware, or surface damage.
Prompt Spill Management: Clean all spills immediately using the correct procedure to prevent staining or corrosion.

Material-Specific Cleaning and Care Tips

Using the right cleaner is essential for preserving your casework. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines or your lab's Safety Data Sheets (SDS) before using a chemical on a surface.

Painted and Stainless Steel: Mild soap and water is usually sufficient. Wipe down and then dry completely with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh abrasives or cleaners with chlorine. For stainless steel, wipe in the direction of the grain.
Phenolic Resin: This material is very tough. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and a mild detergent works well. Most lab-grade disinfectants are safe, but it is wise to test a new one on a small area first.
Wood Casework: Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth. For deeper cleaning, use a pH-neutral wood cleaner and wipe away any moisture immediately. Never let spills sit on wood.
Countertops (Epoxy/Phenolic): These surfaces are built for harsh environments but are not indestructible. Clean spills as soon as they happen. Use lab-grade cleaners and avoid abrasive scouring pads.

Following these simple care steps will ensure your laboratory casework remains a durable and functional asset.

Frequently Asked Questions About Laboratory Casework

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about planning, timelines, and materials for laboratory casework.

1. What is the typical lead time for ordering laboratory casework?
Generally, you should plan for a lead time of 8 to 14 weeks. This period starts after final drawings are approved and ends when your order arrives. The timeline can change based on the material, design complexity, and the manufacturer's current schedule. Steel casework often has a shorter lead time than custom wood or phenolic resin options.

2. What is the difference between overlay and inset cabinet design?
This choice affects the appearance of your casework. With an overlay design, the cabinet doors and drawers are larger than the opening and rest on top of the cabinet frame. This creates a clean, modern look. With an inset design, the doors and drawers fit perfectly inside the cabinet opening, sitting flush with the frame for a more traditional, built-in look.

3. How do I know what chemical resistance level I need?
The chemicals you use determine the required resistance level. Make a detailed list of every chemical and its concentration. Then, consult the manufacturer’s chemical resistance charts for materials like epoxy or phenolic resin. These charts show how a surface performs against specific agents.

4. Is wood casework suitable for a modern laboratory?
Yes, wood casework can be suitable for the right environment. Modern lab-grade wood is treated with a chemical-resistant finish. It is a good choice for dry labs, tech spaces, or educational facilities where harsh chemical use is minimal. For labs with high moisture or corrosive chemicals, steel or phenolic resin is a better choice.

5. Can I reconfigure modular casework myself?
Modular casework is designed for flexibility, but major changes should be handled by professionals. While you can likely move a small, freestanding cabinet, reconfiguring an entire layout, especially one with utility connections, requires an expert. We recommend contacting the original installer to ensure changes are made safely.

6. How much does laboratory casework cost?
Cost varies widely based on material, configuration, and level of customization. Painted steel and wood are typically the most budget-friendly options. Phenolic resin is a mid-range choice, while stainless steel is a premium material with the highest upfront cost. Always consider the total cost of ownership, as durable materials can save money on maintenance and replacement over time.

7. Are custom sizes available for laboratory casework?
Yes, most manufacturers offer custom sizing to fit the specific dimensions of your lab. Customization allows you to maximize storage and create a layout that fits your unique workflow. Keep in mind that custom orders may have longer lead times and higher costs than standard-sized units.

Conclusion

Choosing the right laboratory casework is a foundational step in creating a safe, efficient, and productive scientific workspace. By carefully considering your lab's applications, workflow, and safety requirements, you can select materials and a layout that will support your work for years to come. From durable steel to sterile stainless steel, there is a solution for every need.

Ready to find the perfect fit for your facility? Take the next step to build a better lab.

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