Forensic Airflow Bench Press Release

Air Science develops Bespoke Airflow Bench for Merseyside Police Forensics Laboratory

Air Science Technologies Limited, the specialist designer and manufacturer of fume containment systems, has recently produced and installed a specially developed dye staining bench for use in the Fingerprint Laboratory at the Merseyside Police headquarters in Liverpool.

The 3.5 metre wide bench features a polypropylene sink and a storage tank, which contains ethanol based dyes used for fingerprint enhancement. The unit’s principal function is to provide effective air containment; minimising the release of chemical fumes into the busy laboratory while work is in progress and while treated items are drying out. Air is drawn into the unit from front to back, over the sink, and then vented through an advanced air filtration system that removes airborne chemicals and particulate matter.

An important requirement of the project was that the unit must be fitted with minimal disruption to working routines within the laboratory. On this basis, Merseyside Police specified that the bench should feature a self-contained air filtration unit that would not require the installation of air extraction systems or ducting to ensure a safe working environment. This would facilitate rapid installation and would maximise the space available for other work and equipment. Moreover, it would ensure that there would be no disturbance to other police staff working on the floors immediately above and below the laboratory.

Working to this specification, Air Science Technologies designed a fully equipped dye staining bench that was tailored specifically to the dimensions of the room, optimising the capacity of the unit while ensuring that the highest possible safety standards would be maintained. The designs were produced within the agreed schedule by Air Science’s managing director, John Haugh, and the finished bench was delivered and installed on time.

The new workbench incorporates a continuous air velocity monitoring system, audible and visual filter alarms and an integral test port that enables manual filter monitoring. It has a chemical resistant polypropylene superstructure and is fitted with a pre-filter which ensures that all switches and electrical components are isolated from any contamination.

Speaking shortly after the installation work was completed, Laboratory Manager Joanne Tanner said: "The new workbench was fitted within the agreed schedule and is working well. It is helping to maintain air quality for our staff and is a welcome addition to the laboratory."

All Air Science Technologies products comply with the requirements of British Standard BS7989:2001. Moreover, because they use filtration systems rather than ducting, they do not need to move large amounts of air through a building and therefore tend to be significantly more energy efficient than conventional alternatives, yielding a corresponding saving on operating costs.

Further details about Air Science Technologies’ complete range of products can be obtained by visiting the company’s website – www.airscienceuk.com – or by calling John Haugh on 01704 833338.

Editorial enquiries: Robin Gregson Tel. 01772 866134. Ref.: AST0503

15th August 2005