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Guide for the Care and use of Laboratory Animals: Eighth Edition
containment facilities or equipment, if hazardous biologic, physical, or chemical agents are to be used
barrier facilities for housing of SPF rodents, especially valuable genetically modified animals, or irreplaceable animal models
receiving and storage areas for food, bedding, pharmaceuticals, biologics, and supplies
space for washing and sterilizing equipment and supplies and, depending on the volume of work, machines for washing cages, bottles, glassware, racks, and waste cans; a utility sink; a sterilizer for equipment, food, and bedding; and separate areas for holding soiled and clean equipment
space for storing wastes before incineration or removal
space for cold storage or disposal of carcasses
space for administrative and supervisory personnel, including space for staff training and education
showers, sinks, lockers, toilets, and break areas for personnel
security features, such as card-key systems, electronic surveillance, and alarms
areas for maintenance and repair of specialized animal housing systems and equipment.
CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES
Corridors
Corridors should be wide enough to facilitate the movement of personnel and equipment; a width of 6 to 8 feet can accommodate the needs of most facilities. Floor-wall junctions should be designed to facilitate cleaning. Protective rails or bumpers are recommended and, if provided, should be sealed or manufactured to prevent vermin access. In corridors leading to dog or swine housing facilities, cage-washing facilities, and other high-noise areas, double-door entry vestibules or other noise traps should be considered. Similar entries are advisable for areas leading to nonhuman primate housing as a means to reduce the potential for escape. Double-door entry vestibules also permit air locks in these and other areas where directional airflow is critical for containment or protection. Wherever possible, water lines, drainpipes, reheat coils and valves, electric service connections, and other utilities should be accessible via interstitial space or through access panels or chases in corridors outside the animal rooms. Fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and telephones should be recessed, installed high enough, or shielded by protective guards to prevent damage from the movement of large equipment.
