The Process of Commissioning a New Lab

The commissioning process is a critical aspect of establishing a new laboratory, as it ensures that the laboratory is built, equipped, and operated according to the specifications, requirements, and expectations of the laboratory’s stakeholders.   

By commissioning a new laboratory, you can confirm that all of the systems and equipment are installed and functioning correctly, and that the laboratory meets all relevant safety, environmental, and quality standards.  

The commissioning process typically involves a series of tasks and activities that are carried out by a commissioning team, which can include representatives from the laboratory owner, the design and construction teams, and the laboratory equipment and system suppliers.   

The commissioning process usually starts with the preparation phase and continues through the initial, intermediate, and final phases until the laboratory is fully commissioned and ready for operation.  

The purpose of this blog is to provide an overview of the commissioning process for a new laboratory, including its importance, the steps involved, and the considerations for successful commissioning. 

Understanding the Commissioning Process 

Definition of Laboratory Commissioning 

Laboratory commissioning is the process of verifying that a laboratory is designed, constructed, equipped, and operated in accordance with the specified requirements and expectations. The commissioning process includes the verification of all aspects of the laboratory, including the architectural and mechanical systems, the laboratory equipment, and the laboratory operations and procedures. 

Benefits of Commissioning a New Laboratory 

The benefits of commissioning a new laboratory include improved safety, quality, and performance of the laboratory, as well as reduced costs and risks associated with laboratory operations. Commissioning a new laboratory helps to ensure that the laboratory meets all relevant regulations and standards, and provides a foundation for ongoing laboratory operations and maintenance. 

Steps Involved in Commissioning a New Laboratory  

The commissioning process for a new laboratory typically involves several steps, which can include:  

• Developing a commissioning plan 
• Establishing the commissioning team 
• Reviewing design and construction documents 
• Evaluating equipment and systems installations 
• Conducting functional performance testing 
• Testing equipment and systems 
• Evaluating operational performance 
• Identifying and resolving issues 
• Finalizing commissioning reports and documentation 
• Training and education for laboratory personnel 
• Preparing for ongoing maintenance and operation 

Preparation for Commissioning  

Developing a Commissioning Plan 

The first step in commissioning a new laboratory is to develop a commissioning plan, which outlines the commissioning objectives, requirements, and expectations for the laboratory. The commissioning plan should also identify the commissioning team members, the commissioning tasks and activities, and the commissioning schedule. 

Establishing the Commissioning Team 

The commissioning team should consist of representatives from the laboratory owner, the design and construction teams, and the laboratory equipment and system suppliers. The commissioning team is responsible for carrying out the commissioning activities, communicating with stakeholders, and documenting the commissioning process. 

Identifying Commissioning Objectives and Requirements 

The commissioning objectives and requirements should be established based on the laboratory’s intended use and the stakeholders’ expectations. These objectives and requirements should be used to guide the commissioning process and to ensure that the laboratory meets the desired specifications and standards. 

Initial Phase of Commissioning  

Reviewing Design and Construction Documents 

In the initial phase of commissioning, the first step is to thoroughly review all design and construction documents. This includes blueprints, specifications, and schematics to ensure that the laboratory has been built according to the intended design. During this review process, the commissioning team should identify any discrepancies or deviations from the original plans and resolve them. This step is critical to ensuring that the laboratory is built and functions as intended. 

Evaluating Equipment and Systems Installations 

Once the design and construction documents have been reviewed, the commissioning team will evaluate the equipment and systems installations. This includes checking that all electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems are installed correctly and meet the specified requirements. Additionally, any laboratory equipment and instrumentation should be inspected to ensure that they have been installed correctly and are functioning properly. 

Conducting Functional Performance Testing 

The final step in the initial phase of commissioning is conducting functional performance testing. This is the process of testing all equipment, systems, and components to ensure that they meet the intended performance specifications. During this testing phase, the commissioning team will monitor and verify the performance of the laboratory’s mechanical and electrical systems, as well as the laboratory’s equipment and instrumentation. By conducting this testing, the commissioning team can ensure that the laboratory is functioning as intended and can identify any areas where improvements may be necessary. 

Intermediate Phase of Commissioning  

Testing equipment and systems 

In this phase, the commissioning team will carry out tests to ensure that each piece of equipment and system is functioning as intended. This includes tests such as air flow, water pressure, temperature control, and electrical safety. It is critical to ensure that all equipment and systems are tested before they are put into operation to avoid potential safety risks and to ensure efficient laboratory operation. 

Evaluating operational performance 

Once the equipment and systems have been tested, the commissioning team will evaluate their operational performance. This includes determining if the equipment and systems are working in harmony with each other, and if they are functioning at peak efficiency. It is important to identify any operational issues or problems that may arise, and to address them before the laboratory is put into operation. 

Identifying and resolving issues 

If any issues are identified during the intermediate phase, the commissioning team will work to resolve them. This may involve making adjustments to equipment and systems, or working with the laboratory personnel to develop new procedures and protocols. It is critical to resolve any issues at this stage to ensure the laboratory is safe and efficient. 

Final Phase of Commissioning  

Finalizing commissioning reports and documentation 

In the final phase of commissioning, the commissioning team will finalize all commissioning reports and documentation. This includes a comprehensive report of the commissioning process, including any issues that were identified and resolved. It is important to have this documentation available for reference in the future, and to ensure that the laboratory is compliant with all regulations and standards. 

Training and education for laboratory personnel 

In this phase, the commissioning team will provide training and education for the laboratory personnel. This includes training on the operation of equipment and systems, as well as on safety procedures and protocols. This is a critical step in ensuring that the laboratory personnel are prepared to safely and efficiently operate the laboratory. 

Preparing for ongoing maintenance and operation 

Finally, the commissioning team will prepare for ongoing maintenance and operation of the laboratory. This includes developing a maintenance plan, scheduling regular maintenance, and establishing protocols for ongoing operation and safety. This will help to ensure that the laboratory remains safe and efficient for years to come. 

Considerations for Commissioning a New Laboratory  

Compliance with regulations and standards 

Finally, it is important to ensure that the laboratory is compliant with all regulations and standards, including those related to safety, the environment, and laboratory operations. The commissioning team will work to ensure that the laboratory meets all relevant regulations and standards, and that it is safe and efficient for the laboratory personnel and the community. 

Budget and available resources 

When commissioning a new laboratory, it is important to consider the budget and available resources. This includes the cost of commissioning services, as well as the cost of any equipment and systems that need to be installed or replaced. It is important to plan for these costs and to allocate sufficient resources to ensure a successful and safe laboratory. 

Type and size of the laboratory 

The type and size of the laboratory will also impact the commissioning process. For example, a large research laboratory will require a more complex commissioning process than a smaller laboratory, and may also require more specialized equipment and systems. It is important to consider the type and size of the laboratory when planning for the commissioning process. 

Conclusion  

In conclusion, commissioning a new laboratory is an important step in ensuring the success and safety of the laboratory environment. Commissioning helps to verify that all systems, equipment, and processes are functioning as intended, and helps to identify and resolve any issues before the laboratory becomes operational. By prioritizing the commissioning process and working with a commissioning team, laboratory owners and operators can ensure that their new laboratory is safe, efficient, and compliant with regulations and standards. Ultimately, commissioning a new laboratory is an investment in the long-term success and safety of the laboratory, and is well worth the effort and resources involved.