Design Like a J.E.D.I.

HERA laboratory planners’ Subject Matter Experts Jinhee Lee and Ken Mohr have committed to a significant partnership with Lab Design News. Over the next year, they will write a monthly column delving into the perspectives of forensic lab directors and managers. As experts in the design and planning of forensic laboratories, one major trend they are seeing around the country is a shift in employee demographics. Women make up a larger percentage of the workforce, and this column will focus on how forensic labs can be designed for justice, equity, diversity and inclusion.

Jinhee and Ken will highlight the importance of creating inclusive environments catering to female staff’s needs. Examples include:

  • Ergonomics and safety: Ensuring that lab equipment and workstations are designed with a diverse user base in mind.
  • Collaboration spaces: Designing communal areas that foster teamwork and mentorship, essential for integrating new professionals into the field.
  • Privacy and well-being: Providing spaces that offer comfort and privacy, particularly in sensitive areas such as medical examinations.

An overview of all the columns can be found at Lab Design News. Two columns have already been written: