×
top of page

Safety First: Why Science Lab Refurbishment Is a Top Priority in 2025/26

  • Rob Main
  • Nov 6
  • 3 min read

A 2023 CLEAPSS report found that over 20% of UK secondary school science labs fail to meet current health and safety benchmarks—including ventilation, storage, and layout requirements.



Science Is Evolving But Many Labs Aren’t


Science education is at the heart of the UK’s STEM ambitions. Yet many secondary schools are trying to deliver modern science lessons in labs that are decades old often designed for curricula and class sizes that no longer apply.


From worn-out workbenches to outdated gas and water systems, these spaces are not only falling behind educationally, they're raising serious health and safety concerns.


In 2025, lab refurbishment isn’t a luxury. It’s a matter of compliance, safety, and long-term strategy.


compliant-science-lab-refurb

What’s Going Wrong in Outdated Science Labs?


According to CLEAPSS and the DfE, many older labs fall short in key areas:


  • Poor or non-compliant fume extraction systems

  • Unsafe chemical storage and venting

  • Outdated plumbing and gas pipework

  • Inflexible layouts that restrict visibility and supervision

  • Poor ventilation and acoustics

  • Inadequate SEND accessibility and evacuation plans


As pupil numbers rise and practical science becomes more demanding, these shortcomings are increasingly unacceptable.



The Health & Safety Risks


Worn-out labs carry more than educational downsides they introduce direct hazards:


  • Fire risk from non-isolated gas taps

  • Chemical exposure from poor storage or fume hoods

  • Trip hazards from tangled cables and uneven surfaces

  • Behavioural incidents due to lack of supervision sightlines

  • Emergency egress difficulties for pupils with SEND


And with rising scrutiny around fire safety (post-Grenfell) and structural risk (post-RAAC), compliance is no longer optional.



Modern Labs = Safer, Smarter, and More Inclusive


Refurbishing your science lab doesn’t just tick a box, it transforms how science is taught. Upgrades can include:


  • Modernised benching with integrated gas, water and power

  • Anti-slip, chemical-resistant flooring and surfaces

  • Isolated and zoned power/gas shut-offs for teacher control

  • Integrated fume cupboards with compliant extraction

  • Built-in, secure chemical storage with ventilation

  • Layouts optimised for visibility and supervision

  • Adjustable-height benches or accessible layouts for SEND inclusion


The right design supports both safety and excellent teaching.



Curriculum Delivery Depends on the Right Environment


 Newer GCSE and A-Level specs demand more practical science.


 That means:


  • More pupils working independently

  • More equipment in use at once

  • More sophisticated experiments

  • Greater focus on environmental science and data handling


These expectations simply can’t be delivered in rooms that are falling apart.



Ofsted Is Watching, Too


While Ofsted doesn’t inspect facilities directly, poor learning environments affect:


  • Behaviour and supervision

  • Learning quality

  • Health, safety, and safeguarding judgments

  • SEND provision accessibility


A poorly maintained lab might not feature on your SIP, but it will affect your inspection outcomes.



How Brookhouse Refurbishes Science Labs the Right Way


Brookhouse specialises in full-service refurbishment of science labs in both mainstream and specialist schools.


We provide:


  • Full layout redesign and compliance consultation

  • Durable Solid Grade Laminate worktops and lab benching

  • Secure, ventilated chemical storage and integrated fume cupboards

  • High-visibility layouts for easier supervision

  • Inclusive designs to support all pupil needs

  • Term-time or holiday installation for minimal disruption

  • All fixtures compliant with CLEAPSS, DfE BB80, and HSE guidance


Whether you're rethinking a single lab or planning a new science wing, we deliver safe, smart environments that support curriculum delivery and inspection readiness.



Final Thought You can’t deliver modern science in outdated labs, safely or effectively. And with regulations tightening and expectations rising, waiting isn't an option.


Brookhouse is here to help schools create safe, inspiring, and compliant science labs that support every learner and every lesson.


Ready to put your funding to work?


Get in touch with Brookhouse on 0345 383 0050, or email us on inspire@brookhouseuk.com


Let’s design a space that enables success.














Comments

The Smarter, Safer Way to Deliver Your Project

One Team. One Timeline.

No need to chase multiple trades. We handle everything from planning to delivery — keeping you informed and in control.

Built on Insight. Delivered with Precision.

We use Revit design, 3D scans and full site surveys to plan for every detail — avoiding rework and reducing costly site changes later.

Clear Communication. Zero Confusion.

With a single point of contact, we strive to ensure that nothing gets lost in translation. You’ll always know what’s happening and what to expect next.

Fewer Hiccups. Faster Completion.

Our in-house design and manufacturing means fewer handovers, less risk, and quicker results: with spaces that work right from day one.

One Supplier. Fewer Delays. Better Outcomes.

One Expert Partner

Avoid fragmented supply chains and costly delays. With Brookhouse, you get one accountable team – design, manufacture & installation, all under one roof.

End-to-End Project Control

From initial survey to final snagging, we manage every step. That means fewer surprises, better coordination, and a space delivered exactly as promised.

Specialist Knowledge, Smarter Outcomes

50 years in education and commercial interiors means we anticipate issues before they arise – creating safer, more compliant, and more inspiring spaces.

Designed for Longevity

We don’t just install — we build for the future. Durable finishes, future-proof layouts and technical compliance mean your investment performs for years to come.

bottom of page