Relocating your laboratory is a complex task that requires careful planning and precise execution. Whether you’re moving a small research lab or a large industrial facility, the process can be daunting. To help provide some clarity on the topic, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions that arise when making your big move.
1. What are the first steps in planning a laboratory relocation?
Planning is critical to a successful laboratory relocation. Here are the initial steps you should consider:
- Assessment: Evaluate the scope of the move, including the equipment, personnel, and space requirements.
- Timeline: Establish a realistic timeline that includes all phases of the relocation process.
- Budgeting: Determine the budget for the move, accounting for packing, transport, and potential downtime costs.
Benchmark Services are here to assist you in each of these steps, providing expert insights on how best to relocate with your projects in mind.
2. What factors should I consider when budgeting for a laboratory move?
Depending on the scale and size of your move, you will need to budget accordingly to these points:
- Distance: Whether it’s a small move down the street or a bigger move across the country, Benchmark is here to help. We have the provisions to assist in your move for any distance you require.
- Specialised Equipment: The need for special handling and packaging of sensitive equipment can add to the expense.
- Downtime: Consider the financial impact of lab downtime during the relocation process. Prepare accordingly for the effects that may occur in the time that your lab is not in operation.
3. How can I ensure the safety of my equipment and samples during the move?
In a competent relocation, several steps must be taken to ensure the safe removal of your equipment so that it may be reinstalled in the same condition at the relocated space. Be it hazardous chemicals or potentially dangerous goods, Benchmark takes all the necessary precautions to ensure your equipment’s safety. This includes Project Managers to assess each stage of the relocation, a Dangerous Goods Advisor to offer advice on how to move hazardous materials safely and our “in-house” chemist who can offer packaging and labelling classifications to each item.
4. What are the common challenges in laboratory relocations, and how can they be tackled?
Common challenges that come with lab relocation include:
- Equipment handling: It’s not as simple as putting everything into a box and moving it! Equipment must be categorised accordingly so as to prevent the possibility of spoiled samples or accidents.
- Compliance: Certain materials will need to be handled by qualified personnel. Many of our personnel are ADR licensed, meaning we are qualified to handle your dangerous goods and take all the necessary precautions to ensure their safe delivery.
- Data Integrity: Protect digital data by backing up hard drives and ensuring secure data transfer.
- Coordination: Avoid team miscommunication with your Project Manager, who will be your primary point of contact during the move and will ensure your requirements are communicated clearly to our team.
5. How can I minimise downtime during my relocation?
Again, planning well in advance is the primary solution to this question. Decide on a date which would work best for your relocation, and Benchmark will help efficiently relocate your equipment as fast and as safely as possible.
6. What role does modern technology play in lab relocations?
Modern advancements mean that no laboratory is too complex for a move. Benchmark has an advanced array of equipment to assist in your move, such as our Freezer Truck service, which is able to transport volatile materials via freezers and incubators, keeping your samples in a safe and stable condition.
Ready to take the first big step for your relocation? Contact Benchmark Services today and we’ll ensure a swift relocation to the highest standard.