Rangos Anatomy Lab Renovation, Duquesne University
| Client: | Duquesne University |
| Location: | Pittsburgh, PA |
| Type: | Renovation |
| Project Size: | 9,420 SF |
The anatomy lab at Duquesne University was built in 1994 as part of the fourth floor addition to the Rangos School of Health Sciences. The original layout included the lab, instrument cleaning room, tiered classroom and workroom. The guiding principles for the lab transformation were:
The lab stations were relocated along two of the perimeter walls and customized casework was provided for each station with capacity to store clean instruments. Exhaust ductwork was provided at each station locating the grilles at the autopsy table height in order to pull vapors laterally and away from users working at the tables. Rotating autopsy tables were selected to increase the number of student groups using the lab as each table can hold two cadavers.
Lab stations were outfitted with screens, computers and keyboards so video from a movable camera can be played at each station and to enable students to do research and prepare reports directly at the station. Models and other educational materials are showcased throughout the room in display areas above each lab station.
Two large scrubbing sinks with laydown area were added, one at each end of the room to clean instruments. A grossing sink dedicated to the tilting autopsy table was also incorporated.
The new layout includes a contained cadaver storage area holding cadaver racks and freezer. This space is separated by an overhead door to facilitate maneuvering the cadaver lift and transfer cart. The formaldehyde container is stored in a storage area with direct exhaust.
- Increase the number of lab stations and student groups that use the lab each semester.
- Improve air exchange management to further minimize exposure to formalin vapors.
- Integrate technology at each lab station.
- Add scrub sinks to facilitate instrument cleaning at the end of each class.
- Incorporate an autopsy station.
The lab stations were relocated along two of the perimeter walls and customized casework was provided for each station with capacity to store clean instruments. Exhaust ductwork was provided at each station locating the grilles at the autopsy table height in order to pull vapors laterally and away from users working at the tables. Rotating autopsy tables were selected to increase the number of student groups using the lab as each table can hold two cadavers.
Lab stations were outfitted with screens, computers and keyboards so video from a movable camera can be played at each station and to enable students to do research and prepare reports directly at the station. Models and other educational materials are showcased throughout the room in display areas above each lab station.
Two large scrubbing sinks with laydown area were added, one at each end of the room to clean instruments. A grossing sink dedicated to the tilting autopsy table was also incorporated.
The new layout includes a contained cadaver storage area holding cadaver racks and freezer. This space is separated by an overhead door to facilitate maneuvering the cadaver lift and transfer cart. The formaldehyde container is stored in a storage area with direct exhaust.
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