The pressure on lab services continues to rise with increased regulation and the need to futureproof. Automation presents a compelling solution to streamlining many of the routine tasks faced by laboratories.
In a sector that is experiencing a lack of qualified staff, the ability to extend the working day is simply unfeasible for many laboratories with the resources they currently have. Automation can improve output and repeatability, and can help laboratories towards operating 24/7. Allowing lab automation robots to take the strain of simple and repetitive tasks reduces bottle necks and frees experienced personnel so that they are able to concentrate on more complex work. This is good business sense, and also enables a more enriching work environment for lab technicians.
The rise of automated lab systems is likely to continue as companies recognise the tasks that can be simplified through the use of robotics. Research suggests that the primary reason for labs to automate is to be able to manage increased sample throughput. This is closely followed by the ability to improve consistency, reliability, and reduce repetitive tasks.
However, there are other, less tangible benefits that automation brings. Those that have yet to embrace the fully automated lab face many challenges in their workflow including bottlenecks, greater chances of error, lower service levels, and higher cost. There is also a toll on employees, with risks to health including repetitive strain injury, lack of motivation, and impaired occupational well-being. One survey showed that 89% of employees reported higher job satisfaction after implementing total laboratory automation in their organisation. Employee engagement is a proven link towards increased productivity, as well as maintaining and attracting the best staff.
One of the biggest barriers to automation is cost and integration. For those looking to implement a successful lab automation project, we recommend taking a holistic approach.
It is possible to automate in phases, or in one area of the workflow, but careful consideration is required in the planning process to ensure seamless integration. Without a forward-looking plan, you may find that instruments bought at different times, or from different suppliers may not work well together.
This applies to physical space, as well as integration of software and hardware. Our handy guide 5 key considerations for success provides key steps in the planning process, and offers an easy framework from which to work, including setting a budget and timeline for implementation.
Lab Automation 2024: What to Expect
High volume sampling came into its own during the COVID pandemic. Even when a laboratory had highly qualified staff, the demand for high sample throughput was unprecedented. Those that adopted automation stole the march in terms of high-volume capability, and maintained a competitive edge.
Festo believes automation is the future for laboratories and we work with companies to bring the latest, high precision engineering into laboratories across Europe.
Dutch company MolGen uses our technology in its PurePrep TTR which can prepare 320 patient samples per hour, for further molecular processing.
Synchron Lab Automation also utilises Festo robotics to create a small, automated factory for DNA extraction, capable of processing 40,000 extractions a day.
Fast MDx has created a near-patient test solution to detect pathogens with unrivalled speed, bringing fast testing of pathogens such as Covid-19, influenza A, influenza B, RSV-A and RSV-B. It’s solution, using Festo technology for pipetting and dispensing, means that only one technician is required to operate it, rather than the five normally needed in a central laboratory.
Repetitive, high-precision practices will continue to be prime areas for automation and technology, as will labour intensive activities such as cross-referencing data. As we see further advancements in microbiology and lab automation we will also see more data generated, and more sophisticated uses of data. Lab Automation will play a crucial role in identifying new pathogens, decoding and utilising DNA towards better health, and creating giant advancements in microbiology.
Download a copy of our whitepaper - Why labs need to automate, to explore further what lab automation is, and the typical challenges encountered by laboratories in the life science sector.