ASC Cleaning Procedures
Animal Science Center is committed to maintaining animal health and assisting in the production of high-quality biomedical research.
Maintaining quality animal health and the “protective zone” for research animals from the potential pathogens associated with a multi-species research facility encompass multiple and interconnected components.
- First to achieve those goals is the purchase of high-quality animals that meet a strict health profile.
- Second, is establishing appropriate animal manipulation techniques that protect the animal colonies from potential pathogens.
- Third, is the specific training of all staff working in the animal facility.
- Fourth, is the appropriate sanitization and cleaning of animal caging, support equipment, and animal facilities. .
Disinfectant Compound
ASC uses a variety of chemical disinfectants for the purpose of protecting the animals from possible contamination and exposure to potential pathogens.
Applications
Typical applications within the animal facilities include decontamination of animal rooms, biosafety cabinets, cage change stations, animal transport containers, animal restrainers, enrichment devices, personnel gloved hands, and animal manipulation tools, such as forceps, ear punches, and tattoo equipment. Disinfectants can be applied using a cloth or sponge, via spray or immersion.
Personal Protection
Personnel must wear disposable gloves, face mask, lab coat/gown, and eye protection. Gloves, masks, masks with eye shields, and disposable lab coats will be supplied within the animal facilities at the gown-up stations. Research staff members are responsible for and are encouraged to provide their own safety glasses. Should you have questions about the suitability of your eye protection, please contact Environmental Health & Safety.
First Aid
- CRC: Report to Occupational Health Service 617-353-6630, 930 Comm Ave.
- MED: Report to Research Occupational Health Program (ROHP) 617-414-7647, Evans Bldg Room
- Notify Environmental Health & Safety 617-358-8830 at Charles River Campus (crc) or 617-638-8830 at the medical campus (med) of the exposure incident.
Storage, Spill Cleanup, and Disposal
Store mixed solution in a cool, dry area away from sunlight and heat to avoid deterioration.
Discard expired solution down laboratory sink drain in well-ventilated area and flush with fresh water.
Spillage of less than 10 ounces: Personnel to perform cleanup with absorbent disposable materials. Discard cleanup materials in standard waste receptacle. Wear protective gloves, mask, lab coat, and eye protection during cleanup.
For spillage of more than 10 ounces, contain the spill with absorbent material—do not attempt to clean up the spill. Notify BU Control (4-6666) and Environmental Health & Safety (617-358-8830) of the spill incident and wait for assistance.
For more information, please contact the ASC office at 617-358-8301.