Improving animal research facility operations through the application of lean principles

Area of Science:

• Laboratory Animal Science
• Biomedical Research Operations
• Process Improvement Methodologies

Background:

• Effective animal research facilities are crucial for scientific advancement and animal welfare.
• The Office of Animal Care (OAC) at Seattle Children's Hospital Research Institute faced challenges with efficiency and safety in its animal research facility (ARF).
• Key issues included lengthy equipment processing times, suboptimal equipment and inventory flow, and personnel safety concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the efficiency and safety of the animal research facility (ARF).
• To prepare the ARF for future expansion and support the institute's research mission.
• To implement lean principles for improved operational workflows.

Main Methods:

• Conducted two process improvement workshops for employees.
• Educated staff on lean principles and their application.
• Applied lean methodologies to address specific operational challenges within the ARF.

Main Results:

• Reduced excessive turnaround times for processing animal housing and feeding equipment.
• Improved the movement and flow of equipment and inventory.
• Enhanced personnel safety within the animal research facility.

Conclusions:

• Lean principles effectively improved the efficiency and safety of the animal research facility.
• Optimized workflows contribute to the successful operation of animal research.
• These improvements support the institute's mission to prevent, treat, and eliminate childhood diseases.