Auditing laboratory rodent biosecurity programs

Area of Science:

• Laboratory Animal Science
• Veterinary Public Health
• Biosecurity Management

Background:

• Microbial pathogen outbreaks pose a significant threat to the health and integrity of research animals in vivarium settings.
• Effective biosecurity programs are essential for maintaining a healthy animal population and ensuring reliable research outcomes.
• Periodic evaluation of existing procedures is necessary to identify and mitigate potential biosecurity vulnerabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a novel biosecurity auditing process and accompanying worksheet for use in animal care and use operations.
• To provide a practical tool for institutions to systematically evaluate and improve their rodent biosecurity protocols.
• To promote the adoption of comprehensive biosecurity reviews to safeguard laboratory animal health.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive biosecurity review was conducted across North American and European production facilities.
• A novel auditing process was developed based on the findings of the review.
• A detailed worksheet was created to guide the auditing process for biosecurity procedures.

Main Results:

• The developed biosecurity auditing process and worksheet offer a structured approach to evaluating current practices.
• The methodology is designed to be adaptable and useful for various animal care and use operations.
• The review highlighted the importance of continuous assessment in maintaining effective biosecurity.

Conclusions:

• Periodic evaluation and auditing of vivarium procedures are vital for preventing microbial pathogen outbreaks.
• The novel biosecurity auditing process and worksheet can serve as a valuable resource for other institutions.
• Institutions are encouraged to implement similar audits to protect the health of their laboratory animals.