Client: Meira GTx, London
Project: Complete lighting package
Date: Q1 2017
We recently supplied the complete lighting package for a new-build research and development gene therapy facility in London for Meira GTx.
Meira GTx is a company committed to the development of novel gene therapies to transform the lives of patients suffering from acquired and inherited disorders. This multi-million pound new-build project will be the pioneer of gene therapy facilities in London and the company have invested a substantial amount of money to develop this facility to a standard of excellence.
Astra share in that same passion for exacting standards so we worked very closely with the contractor on this project to ensure every requirement was fulfilled. Providing not only the cleanroom but also the industrial and commercial luminaires, we had to make sure that every element integrated seamlessly together and that we made the right product recommendations to the client.
For the cleanroom lighting we recommended both the Safestep and Victor luminaires from our range.
The Safestep luminaire was chosen due to the specification of a walk-on composite panel ceiling. Integrated seamlessly into the ceiling and tested to BS6399-1:1966 for total walk-on protection, this luminaire safeguards personnel working above the ceiling, eliminating health and safety risks in the areas that maintenance occurs more frequently. Available with rear access, the Safestep also gives those who are carrying out the maintenance above access to the luminaire so as not to disrupt the workings of the sensitive cleanroom below.
For areas without these specifications, the Victor luminaire was chosen. Easy to clean with concealed front frame fixings and minimal crevices, combined with high efficiency LED technology provided the client with a low maintenance and sustainable option for the remainder of the laboratory.
Areas classed as not a ‘clean area’, the WCR from our industrial range was the luminaire of choice. The client felt that its shape and size suited the composition of the room and its arduous design was necessary.
This IP65 corrosion resistant luminaire has a housing made of corrosion, moisture and acid resisting glass fibre, making it suitable for areas with a temperature range of between -20°C and +25°C. It also has a high frequency control gear, non-aging gaskets and removable gear tray for total ease of maintenance.
For the commercial lighting the Aurora down-light was chosen. Also manufactured with high efficiency LEDs and easily installed with its four-point self-clamping spring bracket design, this range of luminaire meets the same economical and sustainability standards. However, as the ‘commercial’ areas of this project were still required to maintain an IP rating the same as that of a low rated cleanroom, we designed an IP44 attachment for the Aurora down-lights to fulfil this requirement.
The client also opted for a self-test emergency system for this project, meaning certain luminaires included a technology which enables it to carry out its own emergency lighting test in compliance with BS5266. Different types of tests will automatically run every month, six months and annually. On detection of fault a visual warning will occur to indicate the type of error found, reducing the maintenance costs for necessary emergency checks.
With over 35 years’ experience in the industry, Astra is perfectly equipped to manage a fast paced, specific project such as this and still ensure that delivery is always on time and the products are as easily installed and maintained on site as possible. We believe the client should always receive the best products and services and that includes always keeping our deadline promises.
