25 Jul Cleanrooms vs. Laboratories: Understanding the Differences
In the quest for scientific breakthroughs and achievements, the environments we work in are often just as important as the work itself. Whether it’s a pristine, well-ventilated room scrubbed of every particle, or a busy space filled with tools for experiments, the proper setting makes all the difference. In this article, we’ll cover what cleanrooms and laboratories are, how they are different, and more.
What is a Cleanroom?
A cleanroom is a controlled environment that is specifically designed to keep out dust, microbes, and other airborne contaminants. They are used extensively in manufacturing and in research across industries such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and biotechnology, and more.
Common Features of a Cleanroom
Cleanrooms use advanced filtration technology called HEPA and ULPA filters to keep air pristine. Similarly, the surfaces of the room, including walls, floors, and ceilings, are made from materials that are easy to clean and don’t trap particles. The temperature, humidity, and lighting may also be carefully regulated (in addition to particle counts), depending on the exact application.
What is a Laboratory?
A laboratory, on the other hand, is a place where scientists conduct experiments, research, and tests. You can find laboratories in schools, hospitals, research facilities, or anywhere where controlled experiments are necessary.
Common Features of a Laboratory
Some common items found in a laboratory include workbenches, storage areas, test tubes, and centrifuges. Laboratories are often equipped with specialized tools for scientific work, such as microscopes and other analytical instruments. They also have safety equipment like eyewash stations and fire extinguishers to handle any accidents.
What are the Differences Between a Cleanroom and a Laboratory?
Simply put, the difference between cleanrooms and laboratories has to do with their focus. Cleanrooms are spaces that remove and keep out tiny particles, and they use advanced ventilation and air filtration systems to do so. Laboratories, on the other hand, focus on providing a safe and well-equipped place for experiments.
In short, cleanrooms and laboratories serve different purposes. However, they are not mutually exclusive, which means that it’s possible for a facility to be both a laboratory and a cleanroom at the same time.
A Venn diagram illustrating their features is shown below.
The Bottom Line
Cleanrooms and laboratories are both important for scientific and manufacturing work, but they often serve different functions. A cleanroom is responsible for keeping airborne particulate matter low, while labs are for conducting scientific research. Sometimes, a facility may be both a cleanroom and a laboratory, especially in medical research, pharmaceuticals, and other related industries. Understanding the differences between the two can help in choosing the right environment for your specific application.
Looking to design a cleanroom? Contact Allied Cleanrooms today to get a free quote and start creating the perfect environment for your needs.