Basic Lab Module
Most laboratory modules are 10'6" wide, but they vary in depth from 20' to 33', depending on the lab requirements and the cost-effectiveness of the structural system. The 10'6" dimension is based on two rows of casework and equipment (each row 2'6" deep) on each wall, a 5' aisle, and 6" for the wall thickness separating one lab from another. If there is an exterior brick module, a 10'8" module may be called for, and an 11' module may be needed if there are several pieces of 3'-deep equipment, high-performance fume hoods or biosafety cabinets. The additional 4" for each module is an important issue. A building with 30,000 gross square feet for a single floor plate can fit one more lab module across the depth of the building if 10'8" modules are used instead of 11'. The additional module depth equates to over 150 linear feet of additional bench space, which could accommodate many research teams. The 5' aisle width is a minimum because of Americans with Disabilities Act requirements and to allow one researcher to pass another without interference. All walls between labs should be 6" thick, whether they are built during initial construction or added later.
If the lab module is too wide, there will be too much circulation area and not enough space for casework and equipment. If the lab module is too narrow, then either the aisle will be too narrow, creating an unsafe research environment, or there will be room for casework on one wall only. If the laboratory building design is not based on a lab module, then the initial and long-term operational costs will be higher because of less efficient construction.