Powering Life Sciences: Electrical Solutions for Critical Facilities

Life sciences facilities, such as research labs and pharmaceutical manufacturing plants, have unique electrical requirements that demand specialized expertise. While life sciences projects will share similarities with other commercial building projects, they involve more complex electrical systems due to the specialized equipment and stringent electrical requirements.

For example, life science facilities typically require at least 16-20 watts per square foot. They also need emergency generators and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), in case of a power outage, for sensitive equipment like refrigerators and freezers, which require precise temperature control running at all times. Emergency circuits are designed to automatically switch to a backup power source in case of a power outage, protecting critical equipment, processes, and materials. These advanced power needs necessitate careful planning and execution.

Life sciences facilities often include research labs and clean rooms. Research labs typically involve a mix of lab and office spaces, with specialized electrical requirements for equipment such as benches, incubators, and centrifuges. Clean rooms, highly controlled environments that require specialized electrical components and installations to maintain a sterile environment, need air-tight outlet covers and gasketed lighting fixtures, to name just a few. Research labs and clean rooms also require cord drops. Cord drops are flexible power outlets that can be easily moved around lab benches and are essential for accommodating various equipment setups.

Coordination is key when it comes to renovating and building life sciences facilities. Interstate has a robust coordination process that includes the use of state-of-the-art technology before electrical components are installed. For 3D coordination, precise BIM modeling software is used to visualize the entire building and equipment layout, ensuring electrical systems are installed efficiently and without conflicts. Specialized components, prefabricated at Interstate’s UL certified operations center, are delivered to the jobsite ready for expert installation.

Life sciences facilities have unique electrical requirements that demand specific industry expertise. These facilities require more power than traditional commercial buildings, backup power sources to protect critical equipment, and specialized electrical components for research labs and clean rooms. With vast expertise in this sector, a deep understanding of industry-specific needs, and a proven track record of delivering complex electrical projects, Interstate helps ensure that these critical facilities can continue to advance scientific research and improve human health.

By David Micucci, project manager at Interstate Electrical Services Corporation