CHEMSAIN
Sustainable Laboratories
Environmental conservation is an important element in the design and operations of our laboratories. We strive to set the highest standards in efficient energy utilisation, waste minimisation and treatment, and reusability without compromising the quality of our services.
Energy Conservation
The intrinsic design of the Chemsain Building minimises external heating of the laboratory space and optimises light penetration which significantly reduces power consumption. As a result, air conditioning is kept to a minimum and most lights are not turned on during the day. Energy efficient LED lighting is used throughout the building reducing energy consumption by up to 65%.
Equipment is only switched on when required and controllers monitor and regulate air flow in fume hoods . Depending on the sash height, the VAV fan changes speed thus optimising power consumption whilst ensuring that negative pressure is sustained at all times. When not in use, sashes are closed so that fan speeds are kept to a minimum. Fume hoods are located in a naturally ventilated area to prevent cooled air from being evacuated if placed in an air conditioned space.
Laboratory Ventilation System
Ceiling mounted suction hoods are installed at strategic locations to keep the air in the laboratory free of unpleasant odours from samples and combustion gases or vapours generated by analytical instruments. Suction from these hoods are individually controlled and linked to a self-regulating central suction pump. This creates a very comfortable working environment.
Waste Management
The well-planned waste management system minimises environmental impact while reducing potential hazards of exposure.
The four tiers to our waste management system are :
- Zero or Minimal discharge
- Reduction at source
- Recycling
- Proper disposal
All chemical wastes are segregated and stored in a designated room equipped with safety features such as sufficient ventilation, smoke detector, spill containment kit, fire extinguisher, eye wash station and safety shower. Chemical waste is regularly disposed of by a licenced collector so that quantities stored is kept to a minimum.
Activated carbon removes hazardous gases from fume hoods before being released to the atmosphere while water from the washing area passes through a neutralising tank before discharged.
General waste is minimised by minimising the use of plastics and paper and extensive recycling.