Laboratory door system selection criteria to meet vivarium sustainability targets

This session examines the challenge many laboratories face: The pursuit of higher sustainability ratings while relying on construction materials that often fall short. Michael O'Rourke illustrates the impact of laboratory door systems on both sustainability and performance, and criteria for the selection of doors designed with sustainable materials, optimized acoustic ratings, built-in fire protection, chemical resistance, and minimized air leakage to support safer, more efficient, and environmentally conscious facilities. He highlights the importance of planning for lab doors as active contributors to project goals rather than passive elements, and demonstrates how they can become essential tools in achieving long-term sustainability goals.