Curriculum specific
Science
Typical Briefing Questions:
What sciences will be taught?
What other curriculum areas will use the science labs?
Would multipurpose be appropriate and what facilities are needed?
What technician support is planned and what facilities are needed?
What hazardous materials will be stored, handled and dispose of?
What specialist equipment is needed - e.g fume cupboards?
Are specialist services required - e.g gas, ventilation etc?
Can science labs be used for general teaching?
Can the serviced benches be around the perimeter?
What specialist security measures are needed?
Do any of the laboratories require external space?
Key Considerations:
There are no regulations controlling size of laboratories but Schools’ Guidance indicates for 30 pupils an area of 79-91m² is required
Rule of thumb: 2m² of free floor area per pupil at age 11, 3m² at 16+ (does not include area occupied by furniture and fittings)
Two types of fume cupboards available:
- (a) Fixed duct type with extract fans discharging into atmosphere
- (b) Mobile type with filters to remove fumes and recirculate air to laboratory
Coat and bag storage facility essential for safety Comfortable working conditions require bench height of 850mm minimum Prep rooms require benching between 850 to 950mm in height to prevent “stooping” Teachers should have an identifiable base with desk and lockable storage.
Emergency service supply cut off valves and fire extinguishers should be located adjacent to teachers’ base Building Bulletin 80 recommends that one sink per six students be provided A demonstration bench usually located in teachers’ base should include a sink and another for hand washing with pillar tap to administer first aid in an emergency
Many water authorities insist that a separate water supply to sinks is provided to avoid contamination of mains water Vulcathene should be specified for drainage pipes and anti siphon bottle traps are required under each sink with easy access to remove foreign objects, e.g broken glass and pen tops Building Bulletin 87 recommends science laboratories should not exceed 40dB background noise.
A room temperature of 18°C should be maintained when the outside temperature is -1°C Lighting levels should have luminance level of 300 lux on work surfaces in accordance with Building Bulletin 90 Consideration to be given to control of heat gains with blinds or brise soleil.
Where possible natural ventilation from openable windows is preferred to mechanical ventilation. A minimum of six air changes per hour is recommended. Good quality vinyl flooring with coved skirting will provide resistance to most chemicals and abrasive damage by stools. Vinyl with slip resistance properties should formally be specified CLEAPSSA recommend a central store and preparation room when servicing multiple science laboratories Technicians can work in teams and higher staffing levels improve security
Links to further guidance on science facilities can be found in the links section of this website.
