Uni of Sydney
G08 wet lab

One of the oldest building on campus, for the department of biochemistry and microbiology.

The G08 Molecular Bioscience Building, a cornerstone of the University of Sydney’s campus, was constructed in the early 1970s. This prominent laboratory teaching and research facility is dedicated to the university’s biosciences disciplines.

Despite undergoing numerous interior refurbishments over the years to adapt to the evolving needs of its occupants and their activities, the building’s exterior has remained largely unchanged. It houses seven stories of PC2 lab spaces, continuing to serve as a vital resource for scientific research and education.

We were tasked with the comprehensive design and implementation of hydraulic and fire protection services.

Our responsibilities spanned a broad spectrum of hydraulic services, including the provision of cold and heated water services, non-drinking water services such as RO water, comprehensive sanitary plumbing and drainage systems, on-site liquid trade waste systems, as well as natural and liquid petroleum gas services. Special attention was given to specialty laboratory water systems, ensuring that laboratory sanitary plumbing and drainage systems, along with on-site treatment systems, were meticulously designed to meet the specific needs of a research environment.

For fire protection services, our scope covered the installation and upgrade of fire sprinkler systems, fire hydrant systems, fire hose reel systems, portable fire extinguishers, and fire detection and alarm systems.

Throughout the initial investigation phase, we collaborated closely to develop a strategic approach to fire services. This strategy included the provision of a new hydrant system compliant with AS 2419.1 standards, upgrading the fire hose reel system to AS 2441, and ensuring that both existing and refurbished floors’ fire sprinkler systems were upgraded or replaced to meet AS 2118.1 standards. Floors that were not refurbished but refreshed were connected to the new AS 2118.1 compliant infrastructure.

We implemented a new smoke detection system according to AS 1670.1, with extra smoke detection in ceiling voids not protected by sprinklers, where such protection is required under AS 2118.1. A new Emergency Warning and Intercommunication System (EWIS) compliant with AS 1670.4 was also installed. The wet system was designed as a combined sprinkler/hydrant system, pending confirmation of utility water supply.