AlphaBiolabs expanding their Lab Facilities for Covid-19 PCR testing services

AphaBiolabs Expand Laboratory Facilities for Covid-19 Testing Services

AlphaBiolabs provides confidential DNA, drug, alcohol and COVID-19 testing services to members of the public, the legal profession, businesses and the media.

The company performs all of its testing in their award-winning UK laboratory based in Warrington, Cheshire, where they ensure accuracy, reliability and integrity for each and every case.

In Oct 2020 AlphaBiolabs launched a coronavirus testing kit for UK businesses which gives results within 15 minutes, by identifying the presence of the Covid-19 antigen from a nose and throat sample.  The test can detect Covid-19 after the onset of symptoms or from 14 days after initial exposure to the virus.

As the demand for Covid testing increases across the UK, AlphaBiolabs needed to expand their testing facilities rapidly.

The Brief

Late Oct 2020, Innova was approached by AlphaBiolabs to design A PCR and Extraction Lab plus an office space on the first floor of a new unit.

Timing was of the essence, with a new lease being undertaken, the company wanted to start lab activity ASAP.  From initial design to full turnkey, the site installation for the project had to be completed in just 4 weeks!

Innova’s brief was to design flexible PCR & Extraction laboratory layouts, to accommodate multiple work styles and increase output over time.

With a tight deadline and additional lock down challenges, Innova modified their key processes in order to deliver the project to budget and timescale.

The Island unit featured in the Extraction Lab provides good circulation and optimum work space for staff.

Laboratory interiors built with quality and style

The tough durable C Frame leg support is constructed from ​50​mm x ​25​mm x 12swg fully welded steel tube, which in combination with ​an​ angled ​front and rear​​ bracing​ rail​s can be manufactured to a specific load requirement.

The whole system is finished in an easy to clean and chemically resistant epoxy powder coat with ​good resistance to knocks and wearing.​ ​

For work surfaces Trespa Toplab Base was specified, which is a perfect worktop for frequent usage and regular cleaning, especially where impact resistance is essential

Reagent shelving is the smart storage solution for a seamless workflow, keeping work surfaces clutter-free from regularly used items.

Biosafety cabinets located in the extraction Lab, are of great importance in handling biohazards in COVID-19 testing facilities. The direction and velocity of the airflow inside the biosafety cabinet create an air barrier between the specimen and the operator, minimizing the risk of exposure to hazardous bioaerosols.

The dedicated open office and breakout area provides flexible desk space.

AlphaBiolabs new flexible laboratories house adaptable, scalable furniture providing a workplace to engage and retain the best talent now and well into the future.

Innova delivered this project in record time, surpassing the client’s expectation with cost effective and high quality interiors.  AlphaBiolabs has now invited Innova back to work with them on further Lab installations!