Evergreen State College, a public, four-year liberal arts and sciences college, recently remodeled their existing chemistry and microscopy laboratory facilities. As part of this project it was determined that outdated laboratory chairs would also need to be replaced.
Like most state colleges, their tightening budgets demanded a cost effective approach to purchasing. The primary requirements for new seating were affordability, comfort, resistance to chemicals, ease of adjustments, and durability. In addition, a more sculpted modern appearance was considered a definite plus.
College laboratories differ from an industrial or commercial setting since chairs are used by students for shorter periods of time. Compared to full 8 hr shifts normally associated with a work environment, school lab applications may consist of only an hour or two per session. Microscopy labs are used for longer periods, therefore comfort becomes more of a factor for these labs. Easy adjustment of chairs designated for school laboratory use is extremely important since they may be adjusted and readjusted several times each day.
Resistance to chemicals and softer, more comfortable seating composition are a must. Optional adjustable footrings are also important in a laboratory environment. The heights of laboratory tables vary and differing physical stature of the students make this a popular option.
The students and faculty at the college conduct evaluations of seating features and options through actual testing of sample chairs supplied by several manufacturers. They voice their opinions and preferences, which carry considerable weight during the specification process that will eventually result in a purchasing decision.
After careful evaluation of products from several companies, the Series 7000 Polyurethane chair from Bevco Precision Manufacturing Company was selected as the best choice to meet the school’s purchasing specification requirements. Evergreen State College has gone through two previous remodels using Bevco seating. For the current remodel, 110 units were purchased for their laboratories. Black was selected over other colors to match lab table counter tops. “When possible, we prefer to buy American made products over those products that are manufactured overseas. The chairs we received from Bevco are first rate, affordable, and made in the USA.” says Martin Beagle, Evergreen’s science operations manager.
The Series 7000 Polyurethane chairs are designed for maximum comfort and long lasting use in harsh environments. They are incredibly durable and offer total body support with advanced ergonomic features that improve student productivity and reduce fatigue. The self-skinned polyurethane seats and backs resist stains and damage from punctures and chemicals. Molded in ventilation ribs increase air circulation for comfort and facilitate easy clean-up. “Every 10 weeks our laboratories including seating are thoroughly cleaned. Resistance to chemicals and ease of clean-up are extremely important.” says Beagle.
These chairs are equipped with easy-to-use pneumatic height adjustment, ergonomic waterfall seat design, fully adjustable contoured back, 360 deg swivel, and a sturdy five-legged molded or tubular base. “Students are using all of the options on these chairs. Easily adjustable height and back positions and footrings are popular with our students.” states Beagle.
Bevco offers additional options for their 7000 Series chairs. Articulating seat and back tilt for maximum ergonomic benefit, choice of glides or casters and the option of six popular seat and back colors to name a few.
According to Beagle, Bevco’s response time was faster than expected. “We completed our remodel ahead of time with minimal disruption to the students and faculty.”
