Lab tables are standard and functional necessities in research laboratories. They offer ease in mobility, added safety against health hazards, and decluttering compartments to personnel and so, should carry a reliable construction.
To ensure that the science lab table will serve its purpose and more, you need to inspect its features. This article outlines the most important ones to look for.
What to Inspect When Buying Lab Tables?
Don’t get stuck in a rabbit hole of confusion when it comes to laboratory benches. Check out this list of what to assess when out shopping for one.
Ensure the Table’s Height is Adjustable
Lab tables or workbenches should be adjustable to allow the safe handling of tasks and equipment. Use this guide when inspecting a lab bench table for its adjustability:
- Light work – The working height of hands should be 41-42 inches from the floor. Equal or slightly below the elbows.
- Precision work – The working height of hands should be 44-46 inches from the floor, 2-4 inches above the elbows.
- Heavy work – The working height of hands should be 32-38 inches from the floor four to 10 inches below the elbows.
Check if it Has a Durable Lift
A laboratory bench should be made to last, and its material is the top determinant of its durability.
Here are the most common types of materials used to make lab tables. They make the best choices as they do not deteriorate due to wear and tear, heat, and chemical reactions.
- High-pressure laminate – This is not resistant to chemical reactions, most suitable for student science workstations that do not handle hazardous chemicals
- Epoxy resin – This is considered the top choice of most laboratories, it does not swell and is highly resistant to heat and normal laboratory chemical reactions
- Phenolic resin – This is water-resistant, it does not scratch when comes in contact with most solvents and chemicals; most suitable for countertops, reagent racks, and pegboards
- Solid epoxy Resin – This is highly durable and oven-cured, it does not react to most laboratory chemicals
Ensure Laboratory Benches Have Storage
A science lab bench needs storage features to be completely functional. Highly-recommended compartments also help create a spacious and safe lab interior, keeping equipment and supplies out of the way. Depending on the environment where it will be located or its purpose, you can opt from one of these:
- Built-in book compartments under the countertop to serve as shelves.
- Locking cabinets under the tabletop for supplies that need usage regulation or as a safe-keeper for personal belongings of students or personnel, e.g., fire extinguishers, and safety goggles.
- Adjustable shelves for storage that can be rearranged to meet the needs of personnel, i.e., easy access to personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Suspended steel box compartments that help declutter floors and tabletops of flasks and other glassware.
Inspect if the Surface is Customizable
Every laboratory has a distinct function. As a result, each lab bench table needs a distinct work surface. The most suitable material is determined by the type of experiments or work done on it regularly.
Do you mix liquids or chemicals? Do you require science lab tabletop material that can tolerate ignition and hazardous materials? If unsure, consult a laboratory equipment specialist. LabTech Supply Company, Inc. has over 30 years of science lab furniture sales and design experience and has worked with a variety of private practices.
Check for Fume Filters
Working on a lab experiment exposes one to poisonous, combustible, and corrosive odors, fumes, and dust particles.
Fume filters are standard laboratory bench features that decrease inhalation exposure to hazardous compounds. They serve as the first line of defense against serious laboratory risks and pollution.
Choose the type that suits the type of work you do. Filters for fume hoods in labs can be:
- Chemical Filters, e.g., activated charcoal filter.
- Particulate Filters, e.g., high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) and ultra-low particulate air (ULPA) filters.
Have Custom-Made Lab Benches
Unlike standardized or conventional lab furniture, custom laboratory benches offer more flexibility and options. Additional modern design solutions can save space, improve durability, increase safety levels, and allow for potential reconstruction.
Customization also gives you the option to build your workstation to a height that will not strain your back and posture. You can also add specific features like wheels for easy mobility and thicker frames to carry heavy loads. Most importantly, you can decide on the size and shape and add personalized accessories like:
- Shelves
- Cable management features
- LED overhead lights
- Electric hydraulic systems
- Cooled enclosures
- Sound isolation
- Sprinkler systems
Frequently Asked Questions
Despite being common workplace necessities, basic information on laboratory benches are not always readily available. And so, we address some of the most frequently asked questions.
How much does a lab bench cost?
Standard lab tables can go as low as $200 and as high as $2,000. Customized designs would differ in cost depending on the size, features, and accessories added.
What is the length of a lab table?
The laboratory bench size is determined by room space and shape. Most lab tables are 24 to 36 inches wide and long 30 to 120 inches deep.
What are lab tabletops made of?
Lab tables must endure wear and tear, high temperatures, and simple to extreme chemical reactions. The materials used to build them must not scratch or deteriorate when any of such happens.
Common examples are high-pressure laminate, epoxy resin, phenolic resin, solid epoxy resin, and spun fiber.
How much does lab space cost?
Office space in California costs on average $2.78 per square foot. In 2015, the national average price per square foot for laboratory space was $24.60.
How tall should a lab bench be?
Most lab tables are 30 to 36 inches high. It is important to purchase one that matches the height of the personnel who will use it as the height of a lab workbench is a determinant of:
- The personnel’s level of comfort when working.
- Additional features are needed.
Get the Best Lab Table at LabTech Supply Company, Inc.
How smooth and efficient a lab runs depends on many factors including and most importantly the design of lab benches. Durable material and functional features contribute to what you can do on them, how long you will be able to use them, and how safe you are in the space.
Need more tips in planning your laboratory space? Check out our quick guide on what to look for when buying science lab tables.
Do you have a laboratory you want to build or redesign? At LabTech Supply Company, Inc., we dial down to your needs and preferences. We can work with any timeline and budget.
To get a quotation, contact us at 800-476-5228 at LabTech Supply Company, Inc. today!
