Mobile Laboratory

Description

Mobile Laboratory, also known as mobile labs or mobile testing labs, are self-contained laboratories that are transportable and can be deployed to various locations as needed. They provide the capability to conduct scientific experiments, analyze samples, and carry out tests in the field rather than being restricted to a fixed laboratory setting.

Mobile labs offer a number of advantages. They allow testing and analysis to be performed on-site, providing rapid results rather than having to transport samples back to a central lab which takes more time. Mobile labs can readily move to wherever they are required, ideal for providing laboratory facilities in remote areas or where there is an urgent need. They also enable testing to be conducted in a wide range of environments and locations. Furthermore, mobile labs are customizable and scalable, with different modules that can be configured based on the type of testing and analysis required.

The key benefit of mobile labs is the flexibility, accessibility and speed they provide in carrying out laboratory testing in the field. They have become an indispensable scientific tool with applications across industries and sectors including medicine, defense, forensics, geology, mining, oil & gas, and more.

Features

Mobile laboratories are equipped with a wide range of scientific equipment and capabilities to perform on-site testing and analysis in the field. Key features include:

Lab Equipment

Microscopes – Biological, stereo, and compound microscopes for examining specimens.
Spectrophotometers – For quantitative analysis of samples using UV/Vis spectroscopy.
Centrifuges – To separate substances within a solution by density.
Incubators – For growing cultures at controlled temperatures.
Autoclaves – For sterilizing lab equipment using pressurized steam.
Fume hoods – To safely contain and remove hazardous fumes.
Refrigerators/freezers – For storing chemicals and biological samples.
Computers – For collecting and analyzing data.

Capabilities

Mobile labs are equipped to carry out a range of testing and analysis including:

Microbiology – Identification and analysis of bacteria, viruses, fungi.
Molecular biology – DNA/RNA extraction and analysis, PCR, electrophoresis.
Chemistry – Titrations, chromatography, calorimetry, spectrophotometry.
Hematology – Blood cell counts, coagulation studies.
Toxicology – Drug testing, environmental contaminant analysis.

Mobility

Self-contained lab within a trailer, RV, van, bus or truck.
Generators, batteries, and shore power for electricity.
Wheels, hitches, leveling jacks for transportation and stabilization.
Ramps, lifts for loading equipment and access.

Dimensions

Length ranges from 16 ft trailers to 45 ft trucks.
Width of 8-10 ft to fit road regulations.
Height around 12 ft for interior headroom.
Total weight from 5000 to 50,000 lbs when fully equipped.

Power

Onboard diesel or gas generators producing 5-25 kW.
Deep cycle batteries for silent stationary operation.
Shore power hookups when facilities available.
Power management systems to run equipment.
HVAC systems with climate control.

Applications

Mobile laboratories have a wide range of applications across many industries and settings where onsite analysis and testing is required.

Some key applications and use cases include:

Environmental testing and monitoring – Mobile labs can be deployed for onsite soil, air, and water testing. This allows for rapid sample analysis and real-time data to monitor environmental conditions. Useful for environmental agencies, conservation groups, and industrial facilities.
Medical testing – Mobile medical labs can provide rapid onsite diagnostics and analysis, from blood tests to microbiology. Allows healthcare services to be delivered onsite for remote areas or disaster relief scenarios.
Food safety – Food manufacturers, restaurants, and regulatory agencies can use mobile food testing labs to conduct onsite inspections and sample analysis for pathogens, allergens, or contaminants. Enables rapid response to potential foodborne illness outbreaks.
Agricultural analysis – Mobile agricultural labs can test crops, soil, and livestock on farms for nutrients, diseases, toxins, etc. Provides rapid results to help farmers make data-driven decisions.
Forensic investigation – Law enforcement agencies can deploy mobile crime labs to collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes rapidly. Helps accelerate forensic testing and investigations.
Military and defense – Mobile labs provide deployable, ruggedized testing and analysis capabilities for military branches. Useful for chemical/biological threat detection and field medicine/diagnostics.
Industrial facilities – Onsite mobile labs allow factories, refineries, mines etc. to conduct rapid quality control testing and chemical analysis of materials or emissions. Enables responsive process adjustments.
Education – Mobile labs provide science classrooms and schools with portable lab facilities for STEM education and experiments. Makes science education more interactive, engaging, and accessible.

Customization

Mobile laboratories can be customized in various ways to meet the needs of specific applications and industries. Here are some of the key ways that mobile labs can be tailored:

Interior Design

The interior layout and furnishings of a mobile lab can be designed for the type of work that will be performed. For example, labs focused on medical testing may optimize workflow with separate workstations and equipment areas. Chemical testing labs may need fume hoods and separate zones for handling hazardous materials. The benches, cabinetry, and storage can also be designed around the supplies, instruments, and samples that will be used.

Equipment

The scientific equipment inside a mobile lab is perhaps the most important area of customization. The lab can be outfitted with the specific instruments needed, like microscopes, centrifuges, freezers, etc. Advanced IT and AV systems for data collection and videoconferencing may be installed as well. Some custom mobile labs are essentially traveling machine shops, with CNC mills, lathes, welders, and more.

Vehicle Features

The base vehicle or trailer can be selected and designed to enable the lab’s work. Off-road capable trucks allow access to remote field sites. Larger platform trailers offer more room for equipment and workspace. The vehicle may have external attachments like satellite dishes, generators, or sampling equipment. Internal power, lighting, and climate control systems can be specified.

Safety and Compliance

Mobile labs intended for handling hazardous materials like chemicals, biohazards, or radioactive substances require specialized safety features and certifications. This includes proper ventilation, emergency wash stations, chemical storage, and structural reinforcements. Government or industry regulations may require specific guidelines be followed in the lab design.

Branding

Visual branding and graphics allow mobile labs to be customized for the parent organization, whether it’s a university, private company, non-profit, or government agency. This can build brand awareness when the vehicle travels and represents the organization at various sites.

With thoughtful design considerations and customization, mobile laboratories can be built or retrofitted to enable scientific work and research in almost any environment or application. The optimal configuration depends on assessing the specific needs and objectives for the lab.

Regulations

Mobile laboratories must comply with regulations and certifications for the specific industry and application. Key regulations and certifications may include:

For medical laboratories, compliance with CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) regulations and CAP (College of American Pathologists) accreditation. This covers standards for quality, personnel, proficiency testing, patient test management and more.
For testing hazardous materials, compliance with OSHA, EPA, DOT and other transportation and hazardous materials regulations. Proper training of staff and containment procedures are required.
For food testing labs, compliance with FDA food safety regulations and related guidelines. Proper handling, storage and testing protocols must be followed.
For forensic crime labs, compliance with FBI Quality Assurance Standards and accreditation through ASCLD/LAB. This covers areas like analyst training, evidence handling, proficiency testing, and lab procedures.
Accreditation through organizations like A2LA (American Association for Laboratory Accreditation) which provide third-party assessments to ensure quality systems and technical competence.
Compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 standards for calibration and testing laboratories, which covers issues like staff qualifications, equipment calibration, quality control, and reporting.
Adherence to standards from NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) or ASTM International related to reference materials, lab procedures, and equipment calibration.

The specific regulations will depend on the mobile lab’s intended application and industry. Working with experts to ensure proper compliance and accreditation is essential.

Safety

Mobile laboratories contain potentially hazardous materials and equipment, so safety should be a top priority. When designing and operating a mobile lab, it’s critical to incorporate safety features and protocols.

Include adequate ventilation, fire suppression, eyewash stations, safety showers, spill containment, and other safety equipment. These should meet local regulations and industry standards. Proper PPE like gloves, goggles, and lab coats should also be provided.
Chemicals, gases, and biohazardous materials must be properly labeled, stored, and disposed of. Flammables should be kept in fireproof cabinets. Access to hazardous materials should be restricted.
Standard laboratory safety procedures should be established and followed, like having designated areas for certain tasks, avoiding clutter, wearing closed-toe shoes, tying back long hair, etc. Proper training for all staff is essential.
Regular inspection and maintenance of equipment by qualified personnel helps minimize safety risks. This includes fume hoods, eye wash stations, chemical storage, gas cylinders, etc.
Emergency plans and contact information should be clearly posted. Fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and spill kits should be easily accessible.
For mobile labs operating in public spaces or events, perimeter barriers help protect the public. Hazardous procedures should not be conducted in public areas.
Safety certifications from organizations like OSHA demonstrate a lab meets requirements. Periodic drills and ongoing review of protocols promotes a culture of safety.

With the right design and strict adherence to safety practices, mobile labs can operate securely for their intended applications. Safety should never be sacrificed for convenience in a mobile setting.

Maintenance

Mobile laboratories require ongoing maintenance to keep them functioning properly and compliant with regulations. Some key maintenance requirements include:

Regular cleaning and disinfection. All surfaces, equipment, and storage areas should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected on a set schedule. Disinfectants used must be hospital-grade.
Equipment calibration and servicing. Any medical devices, analytical instruments, refrigeration units, etc. will need periodic calibration, validation, and servicing by qualified technicians to ensure proper performance.
Generator inspections and fueling. Generators must be exercised regularly and supplied with adequate fuel. Technicians should check for any issues during operation.
HVAC inspections and filter changes. The heating, ventilation and air conditioning system needs routine inspections, cleaning, and filter changes. Proper airflow and ventilation is critical.
Waste disposal procedures. There must be protocols in place for proper disposal of any hazardous chemical or biological waste generated during testing.
Documentation and recordkeeping. Detailed records should be kept of all maintenance activities, calibrations, validations, inspections, etc. This documentation is necessary for regulatory compliance.
Preventative maintenance. A schedule of regular preventative maintenance should be established and followed to minimize equipment downtime.
Inventory management. Consumables, spare parts, and critical supplies should be continually inventoried and restocked.
Regulatory compliance checks. Routine self-audits or inspections will help ensure the mobile lab remains compliant with all applicable regulations. Any issues must be addressed immediately.

Proper maintenance is essential for a mobile laboratory to deliver reliable and accurate results while protecting the health and safety of personnel. A strict protocol enforced by trained staff helps avoid regulatory violations or shutdowns.

Costs

Purchasing a mobile laboratory can involve significant upfront costs ranging from $50,000 for a simple trailer to over $1 million for a large, customized vehicle. Operating and maintenance costs should also be factored in when budgeting for a mobile lab.

Purchase Costs

The purchase price for a mobile lab depends on the size, features, and customizations included. Basic trailers can start around $50,000, while large customized trucks and RVs with high-end equipment can cost over $1 million. Expect to pay $100,000 to $300,000 for a properly equipped mid-sized mobile lab.

Key factors affecting price include:

Size – Larger vehicles cost more.
Customization – The more customized features, the higher the price.
Equipment – Advanced scientific equipment, computers, and electronics increase costs.
Vehicle type – Trucks, RVs, and trailers have different price points.
Brand – Premium brands command higher prices.

When purchasing, consider both upfront costs and ongoing operating expenses.

Operating Costs

Ongoing costs for fuel, insurance, maintenance, parking/storage, and compliance inspections should be budgeted for. Fuel costs can be significant for large vehicles. Specialty mobile lab insurance plans are recommended. Maintenance costs are higher than standard vehicles due to scientific equipment. Parking large vehicles can incur fees. Storage may be necessary when not in use. Compliance inspections and permitting fees apply in some jurisdictions.

Maintenance Costs

As specialized vehicles, mobile labs require meticulous maintenance of both the vehicle components and scientific equipment. Routine maintenance of generators, air conditioning, refrigeration, electrical systems, plumbing, and other features is essential. Equipment calibration, cleaning, and tune-ups will be required. Unexpected repairs can arise. Developing a comprehensive maintenance budget and schedule is highly recommended.

Carefully evaluating purchase price, operating expenses, maintenance needs, and total lifecycle costs allows buyers to make informed decisions when acquiring a mobile laboratory. Proper planning of costs ensures successful and sustainable operation.

Top Providers

Mobile laboratories are designed and manufactured by a handful of leading companies that specialize in this niche industry. Here are some of the top mobile lab providers:

Labtech Mobile Laboratories – Founded in 1985, Labtech is one of the pioneers and most experienced companies in mobile lab manufacturing. They offer a wide range of customizable lab vehicles and trailers for industries like biotech, pharmaceuticals, food science, and more.
Mobile Science Laboratories – With over 50 years of experience, Mobile Science Labs provides mobile labs for environmental testing, emergency response, and other applications. They are known for their innovative designs and quality construction.
Farber Mobile Laboratories – Farber has been custom building mobile labs since 1947. They manufacture mobile labs in ISO certified facilities and have extensive expertise in specialty vehicles. Farber mobile labs are used worldwide.
Lone Star Mobile Labs – Based in Texas, Lone Star has been engineering and building mobile laboratories since 1989. They offer extensive customization options and specialize in labs for oil and gas, hazardous materials response, and other industrial uses.
Labmak Mobile Laboratories – Labmak provides mobile laboratories for a broad range of applications and industries. They manufacture labs in the US and internationally. Labmak is known for budget-friendly and highly customizable solutions.

The top mobile lab manufacturers have decades of experience engineering innovative lab vehicles and trailers. They provide customized solutions to meet the unique needs of various industries and applications. When selecting a mobile lab provider, buyers should look for extensive expertise, quality manufacturing, and the ability to customize to their specific requirements.

Conclusion

Mobile laboratories provide researchers, educators, and field professionals with a versatile workspace to conduct scientific experiments and analyze samples outside of the traditional lab setting. Their compact size and mobility empower users with the capability to perform advanced analytics and obtain rapid results at the point of need.

Key benefits of mobile labs include bringing the lab to the sample rather than the sample to the lab, enabling quicker turnaround times, reducing transportation costs and biohazard risks, and facilitating research in remote locations. They come equipped with high-tech instrumentation, secure storage, climate control, and safety features tailored to diverse applications across a broad range of industries and environments.

With thoughtful planning and preparation, mobile labs can be powerful tools to enhance productivity, efficiency, and innovation for scientific initiatives on the go. When selecting a mobile lab, it’s important to partner with a reliable provider that can customize the configuration to your specific requirements. If you’re ready to take your lab off-site, mobile labs provide the flexibility needed to drive research forward today.