Many life science research and development firms are expanding, prompting a surge in demand for specialized laboratory spaces. Despite the availability of such spaces, hidden infrastructure issues can pose significant challenges. For AECM professionals, ensuring these spaces meet operational needs is critical to avoiding costly renovations and disruptions.
What Happened
The life sciences sector is experiencing growth, with both established firms and new ventures seeking laboratory spaces. Mark DiNapoli, managing director of design and construction at Longfellow Real Estate Partners, highlights that while there is abundant inventory in the real estate market, the variability in building specifications can lead to operational inefficiencies if not properly vetted. A checklist encompassing lighting, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and vibration factors is essential for facilities managers to ensure that spaces align with organizational needs.
Uniform lighting is crucial in labs, as uneven illumination can affect precision work. Facilities managers should inspect for shadows and verify that task lighting functions as intended. Electrical infrastructure should be evaluated with a detailed load demand summary, ensuring that the service capacity meets current and future needs without requiring expensive modifications. Plumbing, often underestimated, requires careful consideration of sink placements and gas piping connections, which are typically hidden but critical to lab operations.
What This Means for Your Business
For businesses in the AECM sector, understanding these infrastructure challenges is vital for successful project delivery and client satisfaction. Companies must engage in thorough due diligence when selecting or converting spaces for life science operations. This includes consulting with electrical and plumbing engineers to preemptively address potential issues, thus reducing the risk of costly post-lease modifications.
Moreover, with the increasing focus on compliance and operational efficiency, businesses should prioritize spaces that meet stringent industry standards. This proactive approach not only mitigates risks but also positions firms competitively in the market, enhancing ROI by minimizing downtime and renovation costs.
What US Operators Should Watch
US operators should monitor developments in federal regulations and industry standards that may impact lab infrastructure requirements. Staying informed about upcoming compliance deadlines, such as those related to the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) or other federal mandates, is crucial. Additionally, operators should keep an eye on procurement windows and funding opportunities that could support infrastructure improvements or expansions.
By maintaining a strategic focus on these areas, AECM professionals can ensure their projects are not only compliant but also positioned for long-term success in the dynamic life sciences sector.
Source: https://www.facilitiesdive.com/news/avoiding-infrastructure-issues-in-life-science-spaces/833527/. Read the original story ->
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