40TW-h
of energy was
generated by
wind power in the UK in 2015
A smarter laboratory
Planning ahead to optimise energy use and
improve occupant health and wellbeing
A
David Hamlyn
Project Manager &
Senior Engineer, RWDI
David is an internationally-
recognised specialist on the
effects of climate on building
performance, including wind
and dispersion problems
s we strive to create the
next generation of sustainable,
high-performance laboratory
buildings, the health,
wellbeing and comfort of
occupants and neighbours is critical.
Exhaust discharge and dispersion can
cause discomfort and safety issues,
as well as being expensive and energy-
consuming to manage if not properly
planned for.
Designers must ensure hazardous or
odorous exhausts do not re-enter the
building air supply or negatively affect
the building’s surroundings. For the
long-term sustainability of these
facilities, they also must implement
R e a d o n l i n e at: u k s pa . o r g . u k / b r e a k t h r o u g h
energy-saving techniques. The
modern, smart laboratory should
balance both aspects of design.
How do you ensure both
energy efficiency and safety?
The first step is evaluating the
laboratory’s surroundings. Although
generic guidelines for stack design
exist, these don’t guarantee safe levels
at the building air intakes, and therefore
understanding the potential aerodynamic
influence of surrounding buildings and
presence of existing intake and exhaust
sources is critical to optimising new
laboratory design. This in-depth
examination should happen as early
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