ABSTRACT
There is great diversity amongst laboratories; however, many commonalities are found in their architecture and engineering. Laboratories are grouped into two main types, wet and dry, all of which incorporate various scientific disciplines and work processes. Laboratories can be found in private, public or academic sectors. Laboratories are typically part of a facility which may include various space types such as: librarycatering, child care, clinic/health unit, wellness centre, joint use retail, loading dock and service yard, and parking. In some laboratories, environmental conditions are no more dangerous than in any other room. Laboratories may be designed as both cleanroom and containment facilities. A laboratory may be designed as a cleanroom facility. The planning and design of modern laboratory facilities should be based on a combination of best practice and predictions together with recognition of the future needs for flexibility. A starting point for the planning and design of many laboratory facilities is the planning module which accommodates basic spatial requirements.
