Microbiological evaluation of a newly constructed animal facility.

Newly constructed animal facilities require microbiological evaluation prior to occupation to ensure that all facets of the design not only function accordingly and that the building is ready for introduction of new, healthy animal species and personnel. Our objective was to perform microbiological monitoring to ensure the integrity of systems implemented within our facility, both new and those transferred from existing facilities. This monitoring included environmental sampling of the autoclaves, cage washers, tunnel washers, and water system to ensure operant conditions. A sentinel surveillance program also was conducted using Crl:CD1(ICR) mice, C57BL/6J mice, and Crl:CD(SD) rats to make certain the facility had not been contaminated by any infectious agents that could affect animal health prior to their introduction into the facility. On the basis of these results, we introduced new animals, transferred existing animals, relocated personnel, and implemented new measures for sanitation that previously had not been used in any of our other facilities.