Animal laboratories play an indispensable role in fields such as life sciences and medical research. Rational planning of the functional zoning of animal laboratories not only improves experimental efficiency and ensures the accuracy of experimental results but also maximally safeguards the safety and health of experimental personnel and laboratory animals. As Guangzhou Cleanroom Construction Co., Ltd., which has been deeply engaged in the purification equipment field for years, we've witnessed the construction and upgrading of numerous animal laboratories. Today, we're here to share scientific methods for planning the functional zoning of animal laboratories.

Different experimental objectives lead to significant variations in the functional requirements of animal laboratories. If the laboratory primarily conducts drug research and development experiments, it's necessary to focus on planning areas for animal rearing, experimental operations, and sample analysis that comply with drug experiment regulations. If the focus is on behavioral research, then priority should be given to creating an experimental space conducive to observing and recording animal behavior. Meanwhile, the experimental scale determines the size of the laboratory and the area ratio of each functional zone. Through research, determine the expected types and quantities of animals to be reared, as well as the future development scale, providing data support for subsequent planning.

This is the core area of the animal laboratory. Animals should be reared in separate zones according to their species, strains, and experimental purposes. For example, rodents, canines, and primates should be reared separately to avoid cross - infection and interference. The temperature in the rearing area should be controlled between 18 - 29°C, the relative humidity maintained at 40% - 70%, and the air exchange rate should be 10 - 20 times per hour to create a suitable environment. With the help of purification equipment from Guangzhou Cleanroom Construction Co., Ltd., dust particles and microorganisms in the air can be effectively filtered, ensuring clean air in the rearing area and reducing the probability of animals getting sick. The lighting cycle is recommended to be set at 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness to meet the physiological rhythms of animals.

The experimental operation area is where various animal experiments are carried out, including surgeries, blood sampling, and drug administration. This area needs to maintain a high level of cleanliness to reduce the impact of microbial contamination on experimental results. Through rational layout, divide it into aseptic operation areas and regular operation areas. Use air purification equipment from Guangzhou Cleanroom Construction Co., Ltd. to maintain the air cleanliness of the experimental area and prevent microbial contamination during experiments. At the same time, equip fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, and other devices to effectively exhaust harmful gases and aerosols generated during experiments, protecting the safety of experimental personnel.

The observation and recording area is used to observe and record the behavior and physiological indicators of experimental animals. When designing, ensure good visibility to facilitate all - round observation of animal activities by experimental personnel. One - way glass observation windows can be set up, which neither interfere with the normal activities of animals nor allow experimental personnel to observe clearly. In addition, install monitoring equipment to achieve 24 - hour uninterrupted recording, facilitating subsequent data analysis.

To prevent cross - contamination and ensure the safety of the experimental environment, the cleaning and disinfection area is essential. This area is responsible for cleaning and disinfecting experimental instruments, animal cages, and other items. Divide it into cleaning, disinfection, and drying areas, and use professional cleaning and disinfection equipment to ensure the cleanliness and sterility of experimental equipment. For example, autoclaves can be used to thoroughly sterilize heat - resistant equipment, while chemical disinfection methods can be adopted for equipment that cannot tolerate high temperatures.

A large amount of waste is generated during experiments, including animal carcasses, experimental waste liquids, and disposable consumables. The waste disposal area must collect and process different types of waste in strict accordance with environmental protection requirements. Animal carcasses should be handed over to professional harmless treatment institutions. Experimental waste liquids need to undergo neutralization, precipitation, and other treatments before being discharged up to the standard. Disposable consumables should be disinfected, deformed, and then treated as medical waste.

Rational design of passageways and buffer rooms can effectively control the flow of people, items, and animals, preventing cross - contamination. Set up passageways for people, animals, and items, ensuring that each passageway is independent and avoiding intersections. Install buffer rooms between different functional zones. The buffer rooms should be equipped with handwashing sinks, wardrobes, air shower equipment, etc. People and items need to be purified in the buffer rooms before entering the corresponding areas.

Once the animal laboratory is completed, it's not a one - time deal. Regularly inspect and maintain each functional zone to ensure the normal operation of equipment and that environmental indicators meet the requirements. At the same time, with the change in experimental demands and the development of technology, optimize and adjust the functional zoning of the laboratory in a timely manner to always meet the needs of scientific research.

Scientific planning of the functional zoning of animal laboratories is the key to creating an efficient, safe, and compliant animal experimental platform. Guangzhou Cleanroom Construction Co., Ltd., with its rich industry experience and advanced purification technology, provides comprehensive purification solutions for animal laboratories, helping scientific researchers move forward on the path of exploring the mysteries of life. If you have any needs during the construction of animal laboratories, please feel free to contact us!