Laboratories classification - safety
Hi Folks,
How would we classify labs to determine the ventilation type, safety requirement, construction requirements.. etc.
Basically, what is my reference when building a lab inside a building (multi-use building - offices and labs).
I just need to understand the requirements or where to start from.
I found something related to NFPA 45 and would need to know if there is anything other than NFPA? Perhaps OSHA?
Thank you all
Comments (1)
The specific codes that you'll have to meet are determined by your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). In most places this is the local codes enforcer. You'll need a building permit for this type of construction, so it would make sense to engage with them early and often.
Are you using an architect/engineer for the design?
If you want a preview of some of the requirements, the International Fire Code/NFPA 1, the International Building Code, and the Life Safety Code are starting points. ASHRAE will have ventilation requirements, but it all depends on what the lab is, what materials you are using in it, and what processes are taking place. At the basic level, a lab is a business occupancy and if the rest of the building is also a business occupancy, the requirements are going to be minimal. However, as you start adding hazards, you start adding requirements to mitigate those hazards.