Designing a cleanroom means taking certain factors into consideration in order to meet construction standards set forth by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Clean room design also involves ensuring that employees will have a suitable and safe environment to work in. When it comes to designing these areas, builders should think about the following questions.
What Will the Cleanroom Be Used For?
The purpose of a cleanroom helps determine how it should be designed. For example, a laboratory setting or a setting containing delicate electronic or technical equipment might benefit from having Isowall insulated panels. These panels are custom-made and provide flexibility as needed, such as if a cleanroom has equipment that needs to be changed on a frequent basis. Some cleanrooms might require plastic panels that offer a full view, while others might require solid steel walls or panels.
How Much Room Will Be Available?
The amount of space needed for a cleanroom is an important factor to consider during the design process. Some cleanrooms might require space for employees to change into and out of gowns before entering the area, for example. Other cleanrooms might need an air shower, such as if employees are working around potentially hazardous materials or chemicals. The amount of space that is available also affects air filter placement, airflow in the room, cooling options, and structural supports. For example, low ceilings might affect ventilation, while large areas might require additional structural supports.
Which Cleanliness Rating Does the Room Need to Meet?
Cleanliness ratings in cleanrooms vary based on how these areas are used, how they are set up, and other factors. The ISO sets different ratings for cleanliness, which affects the number and placement of fan/filter units (FFUs) in these areas. Builders should determine the cleanliness rating needed for a cleanroom in order to figure out how many FFUs will be needed and where these units should be placed.
What Kind of Air Pressure Does Clean Room Design Require?
Cleanrooms require different kinds of air pressure based on whether samples or employees and equipment need protection. Positive pressure isolation is needed when samples need protection from the surrounding environment to prevent contamination. Negative pressure containment is needed when employees and equipment need to be protected from contamination from hazardous samples.
What Other Design Factors Are Important to Consider?
Clean room design involves taking other factors into consideration as well. Some light fixture designs can affect airflow in cleanrooms, so it’s important to choose fixtures that do not interfere with air movement, such as LED strips. The placement of doors, pass-throughs, and other fixtures is another factor to consider. For example, flexible wall panel systems, such as Isowall insulated walls, are food grade and CFIA-accepted, making these an excellent choice for cleanrooms that require moving larger equipment around or in and out of these areas.
When you need to meet clean room design standards, Structural Panels Inc. can help. Our flexible, high-quality Isowall panels meet cleanroom construction standards and help provide a clean environment in order to protect equipment and materials. Contact us to learn more about our Isowall insulated panels and other products.