Designing Work Surfaces For Cancer Research

The first step in selecting an appropriate work surface for a cancer research center is to decide among available work surface materials.  The primary materials used in laboratory work surface construction are laminate, wood, solid surfacing, or smooth stone, including but not limited to granite.  The standard for the laboratory industry is some kind of proprietary composite based on a laminate.  Every vendor claims to have their own secret surface that is measurably better than the competition.  What do you think is the best work surface material on the market today?  What characteristics are you looking for in selecting a work surface?

Proper Fume Hoods Vitally Important to Safe Medical Research

Perhaps the most important investment you will make in constructing your laboratory is your choice of fume hood.  From a safety perspective the fume hood is the first line of defense a researcher has against noxious fumes.  When selecting a fume hood, look for one that has been tested to ASHRAE standards. A fume hood should be built with rigid frame construction, with low vibration and sound levels.  In addition, the inclusion of Radius corner posts and air foils plus easy operator control of interior baffle settings assure a high level of comfort, safety and efficiency.  What are some of the key factors that you look for when comparing fume hoods?