Manufacturing facilities are multiuse buildings that must be comfortable and safe for team members while supporting efficient and productive manufacturing operations. These facilities have unique space and energy needs that must be considered during the design and construction process. Here are a few building considerations for manufacturers.
Manufacturing Facility Site Considerations
The manufacturing facility construction process starts well before ground breaks. Whether you have architectural plans drawn up or not, the site of your manufacturing facility will play a major role in its construction.
The location of your manufacturing plant should provide easy access to your suppliers and your customers. Depending on your industry, you may wish to be close to the interstate highway network or along a railway. Take note of the condition of the roads leading up to your site and confirm that they can accommodate tractor-trailer traffic.
Don’t forget to confirm the site is connected to the utilities your facility requires, including electricity, water and sewer, wastewater treatment, and high-speed internet. If connections are not currently available, confirm the city will allow you to tie your facility into these utilities.
Maximize Space Efficiency
From the outside, manufacturing plants may look like a big box, but there’s a lot going on behind those walls. Not only do you need enough space for your manufacturing processes and equipment, you likely require areas for warehousing, storage, laboratories and quality control, office space, and staff rooms.
Working with an experienced architect and builder now can save headaches and costs down the road. Take the extra time to carefully consider your space needs and communicate them clearly with your design team. They will be able to help you determine how to layout your space so your manufacturing team can work efficiently and safely while leaving enough flexibility to ensure your facility can scale its operations in the future.
In the planning phase, work with your design team to determine the most efficient layout of your operational equipment, storage areas, and access to safety equipment. Often, sketching out a process map can be a valuable exercise. Don’t forget to ask them for advice on how to lay out office and community space so its footprint does not take up valuable production space.
Select Efficient Building Materials and Systems
Due to the significant long-term energy and cost savings, many manufacturers use sustainable, energy-efficient building materials and systems whenever possible. Your builder can recommend materials and finishes that will save you energy and money, including LED lighting and energy-efficient HVAC and air distribution systems.
Designing and building a manufacturing facility is a complex process. It pays to work with a builder who understands your needs. Scott Build has the know-how. Contact our team today to start working on your manufacturing construction project.
