To run an efficient, productive lab and stay relevant in today’s medical market, you need state-of-the-art laboratory equipment. Yet, for one reason or another—the amount of money or a disruption to a daily routine—you’re having a hard time convincing the company to make the necessary upgrades. Waiting to renovate or replace worn down areas has a big impact on laboratory casework. But where do you start? The designers and technicians at Midwest Medical Systems, in Dayton, OH, offer some advice.

3 Signs It’s Time to Upgrade the Lab

1. Temperature Troubles

Laboratory equipment is quite sensitive to temperature changes. Older HVAC heating and cooling systems don’t work as well nor create a stable temperature. Constant fluctuations in the lab damage sensitive chemicals and machines, like scales or pharmacy refrigerators. Fixing the problem could be as simple as replacing an old thermometer or buying a new HVAC unit.

2. Employee Safety 

Every day, the workers in your lab are handling volatile chemicals. It’s part of the job, but it’s also essential to keep them safe. Consider, for example, laboratory equipment like fume hoods. If the hoods are working properly, they reduce or eliminate exposure to dangerous dust, liquids, and mists. If your lab has increased production, old fume hoods may not keep up—and could be a fire hazard. An upgrade will ensure your workers are safe.

3. Outdated Laboratory Equipment

Older machines are prone to problems—and many must be recalibrated to work properly. Have you noticed results that are constantly drifting up and down for no reason? It’s a warning sign you shouldn’t ignore. Outdated equipment is often corroded and unstable, leading to inefficiencies and higher costs. A well-performing laboratory must keep up with new technology and produce accurate results—and replacing old equipment will help you reach that goal.

Don’t put your employees or pharmacy casework at risk by waiting to make important upgrades to the lab. If you’re not sure where to start, contact the professionals at Midwest Medical Systems. Their professional staff has designed more than 500 pharmacies and provides state-of-the-art laboratory equipment to increase productivity and cost-efficiency. For more information, call (800) 762-7722 or visit the website to peruse their product line.