Demystify: 

A few specific things I can add primarily mostly from a stockroom viewpoint:

Wherever you will be storing chemicals make sure that you have as many small segregation areas as possible - you cannot have enough small storage areas.�
Utilize molded polyethylene trays (Scientific Plastics) that can be ordered in any size to protect shelving - you cannot have enough of these!
In teaching labs, use glass viewing windows between balance rooms and lab spaces (if you segregate the balances).
Don't forget tall spigots for washing burets, etc. (we did).
Shower curtains and DRAINS for eyewash/shower units. Don't value engineer them out.
Freight elevator. Don't value engineer it out.� Ours was and now we have to move chemicals and waste in the passenger elevators and avoid the kids.
Separate 1 or 2 hour fire wall solvent storage room in the stockroom.
Cages that surround the chemical storage shelving or cabinets that can be locked.� (Heavy duty chain link cages have a smaller footprint than walls).
Security cameras in stockroom.
Lab coat storage areas in labs.
If LN2 will be heavily used - a room (with alarm) or outside storage area for tanks.
Heat control in instrument rooms.

Sammye

Hi Everyone,

We're in the planning process for a new science building (we're a two-year community college with a strong STEM reputation and a very small informal undergrad research program). Does anyone have any lessons learned or other recommendations as we start working with the architects when it comes to planning out our chemistry labs?

Thanks!

Melissa Anderson

Chemistry Instructor

Pasadena City College

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