What Is Laboratory Casework?

Laboratory casework refers to the integrated cabinetry systems that form the structural and functional backbone of a laboratory. While often described as cabinets, true laboratory casework is engineered infrastructure designed to support workflow, house utilities, protect equipment, and withstand demanding environments.

In research, healthcare, education, and industrial labs, casework is not simply storage. It defines how the lab operates. The right casework system supports efficiency, safety, compliance, and long term durability.

Understanding what separates laboratory casework from standard cabinetry is critical when planning a renovation, expansion, or new laboratory build.

Why Laboratory Casework Is Foundational to Lab Performance

Every laboratory depends on structured organization. Equipment must be accessible.
Chemicals must be stored properly. Utilities must be integrated safely. Workflow must remain uninterrupted.

Well designed laboratory casework supports:

• Organized storage of instruments and supplies
• Integration of plumbing, gas, and electrical systems
• Safe chemical and material containment
• Efficient technician movement and workflow
• Long term structural durability under heavy daily use

Poorly designed cabinetry can create bottlenecks, reduce productivity, and introduce safety risks. In contrast, professionally engineered casework improves operational flow and protects valuable equipment investments.

Types of Laboratory Casework

Laboratory casework systems typically fall into three primary categories. Each serves a distinct functional purpose within the lab environment.

Base Cabinets

Installed at floor level, base cabinets support work surfaces and house larger equipment or storage components. They often integrate sinks, plumbing, and heavy duty drawers for instruments.

Wall Cabinets

Mounted above workstations, wall cabinets maximize vertical storage while keeping essential materials within reach. Proper mounting and weight distribution are critical in active lab settings.

Tall or Supply Cabinets

Used for bulk storage, chemical containment, or specialty equipment. These units may include reinforced shelving and ventilation considerations depending on lab type.

Selecting the correct mix depends on lab workflow, square footage, and regulatory requirements.

Materials Used in Laboratory Casework

Laboratory environments demand materials that can withstand chemicals, moisture, heat, and constant use. Unlike residential cabinetry, laboratory casework is constructed with performance and safety as primary objectives.

Common materials include:

Steel Casework

Powder coated steel provides high durability, chemical resistance, and structural integrity. It is often preferred in research and industrial laboratories where longevity and strength are priorities.

Wood or Laminate Casework

High pressure laminate over engineered wood may be used in educational or light duty lab environments. These systems are typically more budget flexible but must be evaluated for moisture exposure risks.

Stainless Steel

Used in environments requiring high sanitation standards such as healthcare and pharmaceutical settings. Stainless steel provides corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning.

Quality laboratory casework should include features such as:

• Full frame or reinforced construction
• Double walled drawers and doors
• Adjustable heavy duty shelving
• Chemical resistant finishes
• Soft close mechanisms and impact bumpers
• Removable access panels for utilities

Material selection should align with the lab’s operational demands and compliance requirements.

Laboratory Casework Is More Than Storage

It is a common misconception that casework only serves as storage. In reality, it is integrated lab infrastructure.

Casework systems:

• Support work surfaces and countertops
• Conceal and protect plumbing and electrical systems
• Maintain organized chemical storage
• Provide secure containment for regulated materials
• Improve technician ergonomics and workflow efficiency

In modern laboratory design, casework is engineered alongside ventilation systems, fume hoods, and utility pathways. Treating it as simple cabinetry can lead to costly redesigns or performance limitations.

Custom Casework and Laboratory Design Planning

Every laboratory has unique operational requirements. Off the shelf cabinetry rarely meets the demands of specialized environments.

Custom laboratory casework allows for:

• Utility routing specific to lab layout
• Equipment specific drawer configurations
• Adjustable shelving for evolving needs
• Integrated safety features
• ADA and compliance considerations

When upgrading an existing lab or building a new facility, early coordination between facilities teams, lab managers, and casework manufacturers ensures alignment between workflow and structural design.

Selecting a manufacturer with experience in laboratory environments ensures casework is engineered for performance, not just appearance.

Planning for Long Term Durability and Compliance

Laboratories evolve. Equipment changes. Research priorities shift. Regulations update.

Quality casework systems should be selected with long term adaptability in mind. Consider:

• Load bearing capacity
• Chemical exposure frequency
• Moisture and cleaning protocols
• Integration with future utility expansions
• Regulatory compliance standards

Investing in engineered laboratory casework reduces replacement cycles and protects against premature deterioration.

Final Considerations When Selecting Laboratory Casework

Before selecting casework, decision makers should evaluate:

• Lab type and operational intensity
• Chemical exposure levels
• Required compliance standards
• Storage and workflow needs
• Budget and lifecycle expectations

Laboratory casework is not a cosmetic decision. It is an operational one.

If you are evaluating options for new construction, renovation, or system upgrades, consult with a laboratory furniture specialist who understands material performance, layout strategy, and long term facility planning.