Agilex Biolabs, a bioanalytical laboratory supporting Australian clinical trials, sought to enhance their operations by expanding into a new, state-of-the-art lab facility. Engaged by Deloitte PDS, the client-side project manager, Amicus Labline was selected for early contractor involvement (ECI) to lead the design and construction of this advanced facility in southern Brisbane.
Project Overview
Agilex Biolabs required a customized controlled PC2 lab environment to replace their outdated facility, which no longer met their functional and operational requirements. The Amicus team was tasked with designing and delivering a PC2 compliant, high-performance laboratory space within a 1,400 sqm area, which also included office spaces.
The Approach
To initiate the project, we conducted a feasibility study to determine the optimal placement of the new lab and office within the available space. Following this, Amicus Labline expedited the design phase of the lab facility and the separate office space, which featured essential amenities such as restrooms, video-conferencing enabled meeting areas, and ante rooms.
The design incorporated rigorous controls to maintain a stable research and testing environment. A notable challenge was the creation of a lightweight 'Fire Wall,' for which no prior certification existed. Amicus Labline worked with fire penetration specialists, certifiers, and building management to develop this critical safety feature.
The ground-floor location of the lab posed additional challenges for mechanical engineering, particularly concerning ventilation and gas extraction while accommodating the needs of tenants on the floor above. Amicus Labline devised a bespoke mechanical solution to optimize space usage and ensure effective gas extraction without impacting upper-floor tenants.
Outcomes
The project was completed on schedule, despite the constraints imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Acting as the single point of contact for both design and construction facilitated clear communication and agile project delivery.
The new Agilex Biolabs facility stands as a testament to Amicus Labline's expertise in creating PC2 compliant, high-functioning laboratories. The successful collaboration with Deloitte PDS and engineers ensured that the facility met Agilex’s requirements and operational needs, delivering a space that supports their ongoing success in clinical trials.