Using principles from emergency management to improve emergency response plans for research animals.

Animal research regulatory agencies have issued updated requirements for emergency response planning by regulated research institutions. A thorough emergency response plan is an essential component of an institution's animal care and use program, but developing an effective plan can be a daunting task. The author provides basic information drawn from the field of emergency management about best practices for developing emergency response plans.

Effects of a 28-day cage-change interval on intracage ammonia levels, nasal histology, and perceived welfare of CD1 mice.

We measured daily intracage ammonia levels and performed weekly assessments of CD1 male, female, and breeder mice housed within disposable, ventilated cages that remained unchanged for 28 d. We tested housing groups comprising 1, 3, or 5 sex-matched mice per cage and breeder pairs with litters. Mice housed in cages with higher concentrations of ammonia developed degeneration and inflammatory lesions in the nasal passages.

Earthquakes and building design: a primer for the laboratory animal professional.

Earthquakes can occur in most regions of the United States, so it might be necessary to reinforce vulnerable animal facilities to better protect research animals during these unpredictable events. A risk analysis should include an evaluation of the seismic hazard risk at the proposed building site balanced against the estimated consequences of losses. Risk analysis can help in better justifying and recommending to building owners the costs of incorporating additional seismic reinforcements.

Using site assessment and risk analysis to plan and build disaster-resistant programs and facilities.

Research animals need protection from the catastrophic losses that can occur during disasters. The best method of protecting animals is to house them in facilities that have been reinforced using disaster-resistant construction methods. The authors explain the use of site-specific risk analysis to determine the proper building site and features.

Developing Emergency Management Plans for University Laboratory Animal Programs and Facilities.

Research facilities have an obligation to provide appropriate care for animals used in studies, even in the event of a disaster or emergency situation. Each facility should develop a planned response for emergency situations that affect their research animals. Appropriate resources and personnel should be identified during development of emergency management plans.