Pharmaceutical Research

A Unique Combination of Requirements

Through our work in hospitals and world-leading biomedical research institutes, we have gained considerable experience in the pharmaceutical sector. This has allowed us to develop a thorough understanding and appreciation of the performance challenges that are associated with these environments.

Pharmaceutical Research Buildings: What to Consider

 Acoustic Performance
A comfortable acoustic environment can play an important role in supporting safety, health, healing and wellbeing for all occupants of healthcare environments. Glass doors and screens can provide the desired acoustic privacy and sound isolation, while still allowing visual access and light transmission which can often be requisite.

In medical research institutes, glass partitions can be used to create laboratories, meeting rooms and offices, each of which requires demanding levels of acoustic performance and a sense of openness and collaboration.

At Optima we invest a lot of time and expertise into acoustic research and development. All our products are tested for acoustic performance in a UKAS accredited laboratory. We have our own acoustically qualified Technical Manager who is on hand to offer professional advice to help you select the right products to suit your specific acoustic requirements.

Additionally, our expert team of Project Managers and installers, who are equipped with years of experience and knowledge, are specially trained to look out for the potential pitfalls on a site to ensure there are no acoustic weaknesses that might compromise the acoustic performance of our glass partitions.

Infection Prevention
One of the main differences between healthcare environments and other building types is the control and prevention of healthcare-associated infection (HCAI). Hospital environments are subject to spillage of a range of potentially dangerous substances in areas of general use such as circulation areas and wards. Control of infection is therefore of paramount importance.

Our previous experience in this sector has enabled us to develop a sound understanding of this issue.  Within the Francis Crick Institute, for example, we installed anti-bacterial pull and lever handles in the laboratory areas. Read more about our involvement in this ground-breaking biomedical research centre here.

Adaptability
When it comes to the planning and design of hospitals, laboratories and research facilities, maximum utilisation of space is a major challenge. Our glazed partitioning systems are fully demountable, helping to create flexible spaces that can be quickly and easily transformed and reconfigured over time. 

Durability and Life-cycle
Durability is a key factor in hospitals and laboratories and there is often a requirement to reinforce partitions in areas of high traffic where damage is expected. For example, within the Francis Crick Institute, our glazed partitions in the laboratory areas featured a 100mm high plinth. Other impact protection features included kick plates and crash rails to doors.

Security
We understand that security within laboratories and hospitals is a vital consideration and Access Control Systems provide a number of solutions. From card reader systems to electronic cylinders and handles, we will work closely with your security contractor to ensure that any interface issues are discussed and resolved before reaching a site, thereby ensuring seamless integration between the access control system and our glass doors.

With years of expertise working with leading pharmaceutical and healthcare clients, Optima is uniquely positioned to advise you on the use of glass partitioning in these very special environments.