Best Practices for a Safe Move of Laboratories

Relocating a laboratory is no small feat. It involves meticulous planning, compliance with strict safety regulations, and coordination across various teams. Whether you’re moving a laboratory across town or to an entirely different state in Australia, ensuring a safe and efficient transition requires a well-thought-out process. Below, we outline some best practices to help you achieve a seamless move.

  1. Assess and Plan Early

The first step is to conduct a thorough assessment of your laboratory’s inventory, equipment, and chemicals. Identify what needs to be relocated, what can be discarded, and any specific requirements for handling hazardous materials.

Once this assessment is complete, develop a comprehensive relocation plan. This plan should include timelines, responsibilities, risk assessments, and a detailed inventory to maintain accountability.

  1. Understand Regulatory Requirements in Australia

Laboratory relocations in Australia are subject to stringent safety and environmental regulations. Familiarise yourself with federal and state guidelines, including the handling and transport of hazardous or bio-hazardous materials. For example:

  • Chemicals must comply with the Australian Dangerous Goods Code.
  • Biological specimens may require specific permits for transport.
  • Equipment with radioactive materials must be transferred following proper safety protocols.

Engage with authorities such as the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) in your state to ensure you meet all compliance requirements.

  1. Categorise and Label Materials

Proper categorisation and labelling of materials are essential for safety. Segregate chemicals, biological samples, and fragile equipment into categories, and affix clear labels indicating their contents, handling instructions, and hazard levels. This not only ensures compliance but also prevents accidents during transportation.

  1. Use Professional Packing Techniques

Laboratory equipment and specimens often require specialised packing to prevent damage. Use heavy-duty crates, foam padding, and anti-static materials for sensitive devices. For chemicals, opt for leak-proof and shatter-resistant containers. Ensure the packing complies with transportation regulations to minimise the risk of spills or exposure.

  1. Coordinate with Specialised Transport Services

When moving a laboratory, it’s vital to work with experienced transport services knowledgeable in handling laboratory materials. Consider transport providers equipped to handle not only fragile instruments but also hazardous substances, ensuring the safety of both materials and personnel.

  1. Prepare the Destination Laboratory

Before relocating, ensure the destination laboratory is fully prepared to receive the materials. Verify that utilities such as water, electricity, and ventilation are functional and capable of supporting your laboratory operations. Similarly, ensure benches, storage areas, and hazardous material containment facilities are installed and ready for use.

  1. Train Staff

Your team plays a key role in the laboratory relocation process. Provide staff with training sessions to ensure they are familiar with proper handling, safety protocols, and specific relocation procedures. Having a knowledgeable crew reduces risks and streamlines the process.

Relocating a laboratory can be a daunting task, but applying the right strategies can make the process significantly smoother. Focus on planning, compliance, and communication to ensure safe handling of materials while minimising disruptions to operations. If performed correctly, a laboratory move can be a safe and successful transition to a new facility, ready to meet your research or operational needs.