Hospital Pathology Lab Planning and Design: A Practical Guide

Hospital pathology lab planning and design should be straightforward in theory, particularly when it comes to microbiology, biochemistry, and haematology labs. However, in practice, we’ve seen how overlooked details can lead to costly and avoidable errors.

That’s why careful planning and professional design input are essential from the very beginning.

What Can Go Wrong?

Even small oversights in lab planning can cause significant delays, safety issues, or workflow disruption. Based on our experience, here are three key aspects to prioritise when planning hospital laboratories:

1. Lab Benching

The first decision is benching material and surface. For laboratories that handle harsh chemicals, Trespa® is widely regarded as the best choice for performance and affordability. It’s crucial, however, that bench joins are completely seamless, as any crevices can become breeding grounds for bacteria.

There are two key Trespa types:

• Trespa Athlon® – More impact and scratch resistant

• Trespa TopLab® – Higher chemical resistance

If budget allows, DuPont’s Corian® is an ideal solution. It’s seamless, non-porous, stain-resistant, and can be moulded into a single-piece worktop and sink – eliminating any joints where contaminants might accumulate.

Bench Height and Depth

Typical lab bench height is 920mm for standing use. Depths are usually 600mm or 750mm, though some equipment may require 800mm depth to accommodate larger machinery above or below the surface.

Don’t forget: back panels that conceal electrical and plumbing services reduce usable under-bench space. Always check the exact dimensions of your under-bench fridges, cupboards, and benchtop equipment like centrifuges or analysers.

2. Services and Utilities

The next essential factor is planning for services including:

• Electrical power

• Data outlets

• Potable and specialised water (RO, de-ionised, distilled)

• Lab gases (e.g. CO₂, nitrogen)

• Sinks and waste drainage

Each workstation or piece of lab equipment may require different utilities. These must be located strategically across the lab, based on workflow and safety needs.

For more detailed NHS guidance, refer to the Health Building Notes for Laboratories.

3. Ventilation and Environmental Control

Depending on the equipment and chemicals used, ventilation and heat dissipation become major considerations.

For instance, -70°C freezers and blood fridges release heat and require convection cooling or air-conditioning to maintain room stability.

Fume and Safety Cabinets

When planning for fume cupboards or safety cabinets, you’ll need dedicated exhaust systems. These may be:

• Recirculating – Using filters to purify and release air back into the room

• Ducted – Expelling fumes safely outside the building at regulated discharge points

These systems must be integrated into both mechanical and architectural designs early in the project lifecycle.

Why It Pays to Plan Early

Hospital pathology lab planning and design is complex. Many decisions have downstream consequences, especially when it comes to ventilation, services, and space for large fixed equipment.

Having an experienced hospital design partner from the outset can prevent rework, ensure compliance, and significantly reduce project delays.

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Supporting the Next Generation

As long-standing specialists in hospital design, we actively encourage students, graduates, and new professionals in the field to get in touch. We’re always happy to offer guidance and support to the next generation of healthcare designers.

📩 Reach out to us for design support, second opinions, or technical advice.