Room Filter Changes
In order to maintain clean air circulation, room filters should be changed monthly, or sooner if there is diminished flow.
Physical Plant Maintenance
Machine Check Procedures
Machines should be periodically inspected for operations within the prescribed range. This may include calibration, temperature regulation, water pressure, etc. Attention should be paid to filters, drains, intakes, and cords.
Microbiological Monitoring of Equipment and Cages
The importance of maintaining a clinical environment cannot be overstressed. The lack of control of microbial growth can endanger animal and personnel health and cause compromise of empirical data. Collecting samples by swabbing racks, cages, rooms, equipment, and other surfaces, and then incubating can be used periodically to determine which microorganisms are present and to modify the disinfectant techniques, if necessary.
Vermin Control
The presence of vermin (unwanted species) in an animal lab is hazardous to the health of the animals being housed. The best technique for vermin control is the prevention of introduction. Barriers must be maintained. Supplies, feeds, and bedding should be checked prior to admittance to the LARU and any contaminated items should be refused. Diligence is crucial to the prevention of infestation by undesirable species.
