Innovation in science and technology has made the biotech space more active than ever. As such, companies need experienced professionals to build workspaces that support their initiatives. Life science buildings are just one type of commercial construction, but they are quite different from most others. The unique requirements of a life sciences facility sets it apart from other commercial buildings in terms of capabilities, safety, and other criteria. Only certain general contractors like Gidel & Kocal are adequately equipped to take on life science construction and build for the world of biotech. Designing and constructing buildings for life sciences is nuanced. Learn more about what it entails here.
What are Life Science Buildings?
Biotechnology is the application of technology on biological systems. This field can be broken down into four main categories, including medical, environmental, marine, and industrial. Examples include molecular studies, gene therapies and genetic engineering, vaccine development, and so much more.
The facilities that support the work of biotechnology are known as life science buildings. Biotech research and development typically occurs in laboratories that have the infrastructure to support the experiments being conducted. Other types of life science buildings may include designated office buildings, mixed use facilities, manufacturing centers and warehouses, classrooms, food processing buildings, and research spaces. The key thing to note is that the individuals within these buildings will usually be performing scientific tests and experiments and will need the right environment to support them.
Life Science Buildings Vs. General Commercial Construction
A common question general contractors in the life sciences space get is how these buildings are different from other types of construction. The intricacies of constructing state-of-the-art biotech and life science facilities are plentiful. From workflow optimization to the lab itself to safety codes and regulations, there are so many factors that need to be taken into consideration in life science construction.
The work that is to be conducted within the facility could be in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, biomedical technology, nutraceutical, cosmeceutical, or another field. While the requirements of the space will vary depending on the specific designation, there are certain criteria that distinguish life science buildings and life science conversions from other forms of general construction. These include:
- Maintaining laboratory requirements.
- Compliance with governmental and environmental regulations.
- Preservation of secure, sterile, and precise work environments.
- Adherence to specialized infrastructure.
- Space for chemical storage and clean rooms.
- Climate controlled facilities.
- Specialized ventilation systems.
- Backup generators and additional HVAC capabilities.
- Extended ceiling heights.
- Specialized fireproof systems.
- Roof condition and capacity.
- Ability to house biological organisms.
- …and more
A typical construction project will not account for these aforementioned criteria. Only a general contractor with life science construction experience will be able to deliver a safe, secure, and functionally optimal space for this type of work.
Gidel & Kocal’s Approach to Life Science Conversions
The right partner to construct your life science building will be one with experience in this field. Gidel & Kocal is proud to be one of the leaders in life science conversions. Our approach is, always has been, and always will be client centric. Numerous successful builds are evidence that our methods work. We have established design and process protocols in place to optimize efficiency and deliver results on time and at the quality you expect – or better. Our team is made up of sharp project managers and skilled laborers who work in unison. We are collaborative, innovative, and committed to providing nothing but the best in biotech.
If you have a life science conversion or construction project for which you need a general contractor, Gidel & Kocal wants to work with you. Contact us today to get started.
