Mobile laboratories are self-sufficient and can process biological, chemical or other data. They are often used to assess the environment for potential problems, collect samples after disasters, and analyze critical data faster than traditional methods. They can be trucks, trailers, ships, or modular installations, and are owned by private companies, government agencies, and universities. They are equipped for heavy-duty wear and can be set up and run by one or two people.
A mobile laboratory, which scientists can move from one location to another, is a self-sufficient laboratory. A mobile laboratory can process biological, chemical or other data, depending on the equipment installed in it. Some mobile labs are mobile classrooms or teaching centers. Often companies rent or lease mobile labs rather than own one. Private laboratory and research companies often use mobile laboratories to travel to the client’s location.
Most mobile labs are analytical labs that use field data to assess the environment for potential problems. For example, food safety scientists can station a mobile lab on or near farmland to test lettuce or other produce for biological toxins or poisonous pesticides. After disasters, such as hurricanes or floods, scientists and technicians use mobile laboratories to collect water, air, and other important samples. Since the transportable lab is on site, they can identify health risks immediately. First responders often use mobile laboratories as decontamination centers.
One of the main reasons why scientists prefer to use mobile labs is that they can analyze critical data analysis faster than with traditional methods. Without a mobile laboratory on site, samples are collected and then mailed or transported to a laboratory for processing. The time lost in transport can be crucial in decision making. In the event of a disaster, such as an unknown chemical spill, it can be catastrophic.
Mobile labs can be a truck or van, trailer or camper, or a complete tractor-trailer combination. Marine biologists frequently use specially equipped ships as floating laboratories. The portable laboratories are self-contained with a power generator; a complete and autonomous water and plumbing system; and a heating or cooling system. Most of them have an air filtration system. Some mobile labs have airtight interiors for protection in pandemic situations.
Companies that design mobile labs build them to customer specifications. Available options may include specialized cabinets for equipment, counter space for testing, and pull-out sections to expand lab areas. Some companies offer freestanding modular installations outside of the mobile laboratory.
Modular sections may contain decontamination showers and changing rooms and have special plumbing systems to recover and store liquids for proper disposal. Another advantage of a self-contained, modular decontamination area is that the laboratory itself is not contaminated. Other uses for modular sections include additional classroom space, interview rooms, and sleeping or living space. Mobile crime investigation labs sometimes use modular sections to preserve small crime scene areas from adverse weather or bystanders.
Private companies, government agencies, and universities are examples of groups that own mobile labs. In the United States, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has one to investigate microbiological problems and a mobile chemical analysis laboratory to detect toxins, pesticides, and other chemical emergencies. Universities around the world have mobile teaching labs that are classrooms on wheels and are designed to spark an interest in education and learning. Sometimes these mobile classrooms function as scientific laboratories, but generally they are dedicated to teaching. Occasionally a group may rent the Mobile Teaching Lab for events such as fundraisers, birthday parties, and other celebrations.
In general, the trucks that transport mobile laboratories are equipped for heavy-duty wear. A mobile laboratory can be heavy and must run as smoothly as possible to avoid jarring of sensitive scientific instruments. Trucks are often equipped with better shock absorbers, heavy-duty batteries, and durable air filters. Some features like larger fuel tanks and extra spare tires are necessary for mobile labs that scientists and technicians use in remote areas. Most mobile labs are designed to be set up and run by one or two people.
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