Ohio State University (OSU) Biomedical and Materials Engineering Complex (BMEC) is a 115,000 square foot facility that houses both OSU’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering and the Department of Biomedical Engineering. The building is designed to be translational meaning support student and researchers work from research to practical application.

The $59.1 million dollar expansion includes the renovation of an existing building built-in 1959 and the addition of a brand new facility. The first two floors feature a 150-seat auditorium, five classrooms, and two undergraduate computer labs. The third and fourth floors, primarily for faculty and graduate students, feature four to six open labs for work on medical issues such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Translational design is incorporated within the four-story atrium which features open windows allowing students and researchers to see into the undergraduate research labs where hands-on work is taking place.

In order to paint the enormous atrium and apply the stretch fabric acoustical wall panels, 40 ft tall scaffolding was needed as well as a walkway at each level. Maintaining safety as the number one priority, the scaffolding and walkway were inspected daily.

Implementing LEAN principals helped keep the project on schedule. Morning huddles, the 5S program, and everything on wheels standardized the workflow. Communication through Plexus, Plangrid, and Prolog kept all trades aligned.

Despite a significant impact from COVID-19 beginning in early March of 2020, OCP rose to the occasion and diligently worked to stay ahead of potential challenges by implementing strict safety guidelines through exposure prevention, preparedness, and response plan.

The BMEC will be applying for LEED Certification and is expected to be completed in August of 2020.