Are you planning to purchase new equipment for a laboratory?
The very nature of research requires specialized equipment for laboratories. Because specialized research equipment is often not formally tested and validated to meet American safety standards (e.g., U.L. Listed), and procurement and installation may require unplanned infrastructure improvements including, but not limited to electrical service, HVAC capacity, noise/vibration dampening and structural loading, all purchases must be reviewed according to the criteria outlined in the Research Equipment Procurement & Installation Checklist below.
Research Equipment Procurement & Installation Checklist
The purpose of this checklist (expandable list of questions below) is to assist in determining whether additional evaluation is needed when planning for procurement and installation of research equipment. The checklist is not deemed all- inclusive as unique situations frequently arise. Use of this checklist and the associated resources will help in preventing delays in commencing research activities caused by unrealized requirements. “Equipment” is defined as any electrical or mechanical device to be utilized in the conduct of teaching or research in University of Minnesota Facilities.
Use the following Research Equipment Procurement & Installation Checklist to begin the equipment evaluation and procurement process.
Listing Requirements
Is the equipment listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory?
- If “yes”, listing requirement has been met.
- If “no”, continue to next question.
Have you provided UHS with a 3rd party engineering report validating the equipment as safe for use?
- If “yes”, listing requirement has been met.
- If “no”, complete a PR form requesting a “3rd party equipment validation”
Pressurized/Steam Equipment
If your purchase meets any of these parameters, please reach out to ORM@UMN.EDU before making the purchase to ensure that the equipment meets current regulations and requirements.
- Is the equipment designed to operate (contain material) above 15 pig?
- Does the equipment produce and/or use steam?
- Does the equipment produce and/or use hot liquid above 210 degrees Fahrenheit?
Electrical
Does the equipment require electric power greater than existing electric outlets in the space intended for installation?
- If Yes, complete a PR form requesting a “building infrastructure review”
Physical Size & Weight
Is the equipment too big to fit though existing entrances to the building and space?
- If Yes, complete a PR form requesting a “building infrastructure review”
Does the equipment weigh over 1000 lbs, or is it likely to exceed building structural load limits?
- If Yes, complete a PR form requesting a “building infrastructure review”
Heating and/or Cooling
Does the equipment generate sufficient heat requiring cooling beyond existing?
- If Yes, complete a PR form requesting a “building infrastructure review”
Does the equipment require air filtration or clean room systems beyond existing?
- If Yes, complete a PR form requesting a “building infrastructure review”
Liquid and Gas System Requirements
Does the equipment require deionized water, compressed air or other gas supply, beyond existing?
- If Yes, complete a PR form requesting a “building infrastructure review”
Noise Considerations
Does the system generate noise (>60bD) or vibration levels which may be detected and considered a nuisance or distraction to adjacent spaces?
- If Yes, complete a PR form requesting a “building infrastructure review”
For questions, contact one of the following FM Project Coordinator Contacts:
East Bank District: Paul Krueger (612) 626-3830
Health Sciences District: John Stoffel (612) 626-2876
HRA District: Mark Weber (612) 282-6804
St. Paul District: Bryce Frandrup (612) 624-4955
West Bank District: Karen Haakonson (612) 624-6911