Bit Bio is an award-winning biomedical organisation based at Babraham Research Campus near Cambridge. Working alongside main contractor SDC Builders, we upgraded two existing research wings for Bit Bio to provide new laboratory facilities and cold store rooms.

By progressing the refurbishment in a phased manner on each wing we were able to maintain one laboratory in full operational mode whilst the other was being upgraded.

The timescales of the project were extremely fast track, hence procurement, deliveries, programming, and coordination of trades were key aspects to enabling the various deadlines.

Part of the installation comprised modifying the existing ventilation system to suit the new laboratory space. The installation of specialist gases and a gas monitoring system are particular features of the scheme. A new compressor, vacuum plant and pipework to CO2, N2, vacuum and compressed air outlets were connected to manifolds in the bottle store, complete with a gas bottle changeover system and indication panels. Improvements were made to the domestic water services using MEPLA approved press-fit pipework and chemical drainage to comply with the relevant regulations and standards.

The re-arranged spaces required small power alterations in both wings and 3 phase supplies for the unique specialist laboratory equipment. New lighting, emergency lighting and absence detection using Zen controls systems was provided and linked back to the main Babraham control centre. Various modifications were undertaken on the campus access control system and fire alarm including interfacing to new fume cupboards and the gas monitoring systems. New UPS units were also installed for various laboratory equipment.

Role:

Mechanical and Electrical Contractor

Client:

SDC Builders

M & E Consultant:

Scotch Partners

Value:

£750K

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