The Georgia Tech Lab Design Guide aims to provide a comprehensive set of guidelines and best practices for design professionals and contractors involved in the creation and renovation of laboratory spaces at Georgia Tech. This guide is informed by lessons learned from past projects and strives to ensure uniformity across all Georgia Tech laboratories, while accommodating the specific research goals of each lab.

image of two scientists working at a hood in a lab
Blank Space (small)
(text and background only visible when logged in)

Georgia Tech Responsibility

This section provides a comprehensive overview of the steps involved in lab space assignment, the implementation of safety systems, and the evaluation of existing infrastructure. Before starting any lab design or construction project, Georgia Tech has key responsibilities to ensure safety, compliance, and functionality:

  • Identify appropriate lab spaces based on research needs and existing infrastructure.
  • Ensure the presence of appropriate Dangerous Gas Monitoring Systems (DGMS):
    • Types on campus include Honeywell standalone, Honeywell & Fire Panel Hybrid, and DGMS Panel – Notifier 3030.
    • Labs must be located in buildings equipped with an appropriate DGMS.
  • Review the Fire Alarm Control Panel Survey (2018) by the Fire Safety Office (FSO) to ensure fire safety integration.
  • Coordinate with Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) to confirm DGMS requirements.

  • Assess the condition of building utilities and infrastructure.
  • Match lab requirements with available utilities (electricity, water, HVAC, etc.).
  • Include an Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) survey if one isn’t already available.

  • Follow EHS procedures for lab moves, decommissioning, and commissioning.
  • Consult the Biosafety Manual for guidelines on moving lab equipment.

  • A new Principal Investigator (PI) or chemical inventory requires code compliance updates.
  • Labs must be equipped with an automatic extinguishing system (wet or FSO-approved alternative).
  • Chemical inventories exceeding 4 liters (1 gallon) must comply with NFPA 45 and use quick-response fire sprinklers.
Blank Space (small)
(text and background only visible when logged in)

Design Professional Responsibility

Design Professionals are accountable for meeting safety codes and aligning with Georgia Tech standards during pre-design and construction:

  • Conduct a thorough chemical inventory and classify hazards.
  • Review and modify fire hazard wall ratings to meet lab requirements.
  • Consult the FSO Chemical Inventory Form for proper documentation.

  • Design lab ventilation based on research needs:
    • Fume hoods: Select between variable or constant air volume based on the building's exhaust systems.
    • Ensure ASHRAE 110 testing for all new fume hoods.
  • Plan for Dangerous Gas Monitoring System (DGMS) integration in coordination with EHS.
  • Include emergency shut-off systems and coordinate with building power infrastructure.

  • Match lab equipment footprints with available space and utilities.
  • Verify compatibility of specialized systems (e.g., vacuum pumps, gloveboxes, biosafety cabinets).
  • Ensure compliance with specific codes for hazardous equipment (e.g., lasers, X-ray devices).

  • Use materials (e.g., stainless steel, phenolic coatings) based on lab functions and safety requirements.
  • Incorporate lead shielding and door interlocks where necessary (e.g., for laser labs).
  • Ensure all systems comply with local codes, Georgia Tech Fire Safety, and EHS standards.
Blank Space (small)
(text and background only visible when logged in)

Reference Documents

Design Professionals and Contractors should refer to the following resources to ensure compliance with Georgia Tech’s lab design standards:

Questions?

Contact: 
Ngugi Mathu
Registered Architect III
ngugi.mathu@facilities.gatech.edu