Noah Nichols

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Noah Nichols is VP of Operations at LOC Scientific, a laboratory furniture and fume hood supplier based in Buford, GA that has designed more than 10,400 laboratories and sold or serviced over 20,800 fume hoods since 1986. In his role, Noah oversees the operational side of LOC's design, supply, and installation work for clients across healthcare, education, government, industrial, and research labs.

On the LOC Scientific blog, Noah writes about the practical realities of lab design and operations, from choosing the right materials for a given lab's chemical exposure to the workflow and safety considerations that come up during real installations.

Chemical Resistance Charts: What You Need To Know

Quick Summary Chemical resistance information helps laboratory planners compare how materials react when exposed to acids, bases, solvents, salts, and other substances. Compatibility ratings can guide decisions about countertops, cabinets, sinks, work surfaces, and related components. Temperature, concentration, exposure duration, and cleaning practices can influence actual performance, making application conditions important during material selection forContinue reading “Chemical Resistance Charts: What You Need To Know”

A Guide To The OSHA Laboratory Standard

Quick Summary Laboratories handling hazardous chemicals need safety practices that address exposure risks, employee training, protective equipment, chemical handling, and emergency procedures. The OSHA laboratory standard establishes requirements for covered laboratory workplaces using hazardous chemicals. A written Chemical Hygiene Plan, designated responsibilities, exposure controls, training, and appropriate protective measures form important parts of laboratory safetyContinue reading “A Guide To The OSHA Laboratory Standard”

Laboratory Epoxy Resin Countertop Durability Guide

Quick Summary Epoxy resin countertops gain durability from dense construction, low liquid absorption, strong load resistance, and dependable performance under demanding laboratory conditions. Chemical concentration, heat exposure, equipment weight, fabrication, and support all influence long term results. Proper installation protects vulnerable areas such as seams, sinks, edges, and cutouts. Regular cleaning, careful equipment handling, andContinue reading “Laboratory Epoxy Resin Countertop Durability Guide”

How To Tell It’s Time To Upgrade Your Laboratory Furniture

Quick Summary Laboratory furniture may need attention when damage, corrosion, recurring repairs, poor ergonomics, or inadequate storage begins to affect daily operations. The right response may involve repairing one component, updating a specific work area, or replacing a wider furniture system. Material compatibility, equipment requirements, workflow, cleaning needs, and future growth should guide every upgradeContinue reading “How To Tell It’s Time To Upgrade Your Laboratory Furniture”

How Long Do Epoxy Countertops Last In The Laboratory?

Quick Summary Laboratory grade epoxy countertops commonly last 10 to 20 years, with some remaining dependable for longer. Installation quality, chemical exposure, temperature changes, physical wear, and maintenance influence their service life. Prompt cleaning and regular inspections can reduce avoidable damage. Repair may address isolated issues, while replacement becomes appropriate when the surface can noContinue reading “How Long Do Epoxy Countertops Last In The Laboratory?”

Why Chemical-Resistant Countertops Matter In Your Laboratory

Quick Summary Chemical-resistant countertops provide durable, non-porous work surfaces that withstand exposure to acids, solvents, alkalis, heat, and biological contaminants without degrading. Their resistance to chemical damage helps maintain laboratory safety, reduce contamination risks, support accurate testing, and extend the lifespan of laboratory workspaces across research, healthcare, pharmaceutical, industrial, and educational environments. In any laboratoryContinue reading “Why Chemical-Resistant Countertops Matter In Your Laboratory”

Epoxy Vs. Stainless Steel Countertops: Which Material Suits Your Laboratory?

Quick Summary Epoxy resin and stainless steel are two of the most widely used laboratory countertop materials, each offering distinct performance advantages based on laboratory requirements. While epoxy resin provides exceptional resistance to acids, solvents, and other aggressive chemicals, stainless steel excels in sterile environments requiring high heat tolerance and easy sanitization. Comparing their chemicalContinue reading “Epoxy Vs. Stainless Steel Countertops: Which Material Suits Your Laboratory?”

A Guide To Choosing The Right Science Lab Countertop Material

Quick Summary Science lab countertop materials vary in their resistance to chemicals, heat, moisture, impact, and microbial growth, making material selection an important factor in laboratory performance and longevity. Common options such as epoxy resin, stainless steel, phenolic resin, chemical-resistant laminate, and high-pressure laminate each offer distinct advantages for different laboratory environments based on durability,Continue reading “A Guide To Choosing The Right Science Lab Countertop Material”

Why Clutter And Large Equipment Can Be Dangerous In A Fume Hood

Quick Summary

Clutter and large equipment in a fume hood disrupt airflow, increase chemical exposure, and create fire or physical hazards. Overcrowding can block visual monitoring, hinder emergency responses, and reduce the efficiency and lifespan of lab fume hoods. Keeping only important materials, arranging equipment carefully, and maintaining a clean workspace preserves safety, optimizes hood performance, and allows laboratory personnel to work efficiently while minimizing risks from spills, fumes, or accidents. Proper organization is key to maximizing the protective function of every hood.

When Should A Chemical Fume Hood Be Used?

Quick Summary

Chemical fume hoods play a vital role in laboratory safety by containing hazardous vapors, gases, and particles. They are necessary when handling volatile chemicals, following SDS instructions, performing reactions that produce fumes, managing hazardous waste, or working with unknown compounds. Lab fume hoods also protect personnel from odors, irritants, and particulate matter while maintaining proper airflow and environmental control. Using fume hoods consistently supports safe chemical handling, operational efficiency, and compliance with safety regulations.

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