A practical guide for lab managers, safety officers, and facilities teams across the UK. Planning a laboratory fit out involves far more than installing benches and equipment. Safety, compliance, and ventilation design must come first — and at the centre of all three is local exhaust ventilation (LEV). What Is a Laboratory Fit Out? A laboratory fit out is the complete design and build process of creating a safe, functional, and compliant laboratory environment. A professional fit out covers space planning, fume cupboard installation, electrical and plumbing services, specialist finishes, and — critically — a fully designed local exhaust ventilation system. Every element must work together. A poorly designed space raises contamination risks, reduces productivity, and — most importantly — puts people's health at risk. Why Local Exhaust Ventilation Is Essential Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) captures and removes airborne contaminants — fumes, du...