Safety Considerations in the Renovation of High School Science Laboratories

In May of 1989, a $12 million renovation of the Urbana, Illinois, High School was completed. The project budget included extensive remodeling of 177,000 ft² and a 75,000 ft² addition to suit the needs of a 4-year high school program in contrast to the previous 3-year program. This remodeling included major renovation of the interior to reflect functional, code and maintenance criteria; replacement of the heating plant; a new ventilation system; replacement and/or upgrading of the plumbing, power, and lighting systems; and air conditioning of selected areas.