The life science facilities that we design today are fueling the future of research and development. In collaboration with laboratory, private, and university-affiliated clients, GHT delivers mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) solutions that achieve stakeholder system performance goals.
Whether it’s a lab fit out within existing office space or the construction of a new research facility, GHT works with clients to navigate the unique MEP considerations of each life science project.
1. Designated HVAC Zones
Life science spaces have unique HVAC demands that differ significantly from standard office spaces, necessitating dedicated zones for heating and cooling along with specialized HVAC systems.
For GMU’s Potomac Science Center, GHT addressed these requirements by implementing a dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) for the entire facility, with sensible-cooling chilled water variable air volume (VAV) terminal units for the offices and classroom zones, and laboratory-grade supply and exhaust terminals to maintain air change range rates and pressure relationships within the laboratory spaces. The two air distribution systems function very differently, but they share a central heating, cooling, and ventilation plant, that allows for greater efficiencies compared with separate plants.
2. Pressurization
MEP systems are essential for controlling contaminants in life science spaces. For facilities like the Virginia Cancer Specialists, where research and clinical trials are conducted, pressurization is crucial for maintaining clear separation between contaminated and the clean spaces.
To prevent cross-contamination, the soiled supply room, lab space, and bio room are negatively pressurized through exhaust fans, ensuring that any contaminants are contained within designated areas and do not infiltrate clean spaces.
3. Emergency Power Requirements
Life science spaces often house specialized equipment with critical emergency power needs. At UVA’s Biocomplexity Institute, a magnetoencephalography (MEG) shielded imaging room was incorporated to map brain function by measuring magnetic fields generated by brain activity.
To ensure accurate readings, the room was shielded against external magnetic and electrical interference. To meet the MEP equipment’s emergency power demands, a 275 kW generator was added to the building’s electrical design.
4. Extensive Plumbing Systems
Life science spaces require intricate plumbing systems to support specialized functions, including lab sinks, emergency showers and eyewash stations, fume hood sinks, and lab waste drainage systems. To comply with stringent code requirements of these specialty spaces, plumbing engineering designs in these spaces commonly incorporate backflow preventers, chemical-resistant piping, and advanced filtration systems.
Because of the high costs associated with the purchase and installation of such systems, GHT works with the end user to determine if centralized equipment is more cost-effective, or if point-of-use systems are more appropriate for phased implementation and future flexibility.
5. Performance Testing
After the Biocomplexity Institute lab space was designed, the lab hoods were commissioned and underwent tracer testing to verify the exhaust systems were performing as designed. With variable flow hoods, different alcove configurations, and uses, airflow migration paths within the finished lab were variable. Testing revealed that two specific areas were unable to achieve laminar flow under specific conditions.
GHT participated in field-testing and reconfigured the supply diffusers to eliminate the turbulent conditions in these areas, ensuring optimal airflow and compliance with design standards.