
Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities in Gambia
Engineering Excellence & Technical Support
Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities solutions for Research & Discovery (R&D). High-standard technical execution following OEM protocols and local regulatory frameworks.
Advanced Research Microscopy Suite
Equipped with state-of-the-art confocal and fluorescence microscopes, enabling high-resolution imaging of cellular and tissue samples. This facility supports in-depth studies of infectious diseases, parasite biology, and wildlife health, crucial for understanding and combating zoonotic threats in Gambia.
Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) Laboratory
Our BSL-3 laboratory provides the highest level of biocontainment for the safe handling of highly infectious agents. This critical infrastructure allows for the cultivation, manipulation, and diagnostic testing of pathogens, ensuring the safety of researchers and the community while facilitating advanced research on diseases prevalent in Gambia.
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and Genomics Core
Featuring advanced NGS platforms, this core facility enables rapid and comprehensive genomic and transcriptomic analysis of animal and pathogen samples. This capability is vital for tracking disease evolution, identifying resistance mechanisms, and developing targeted interventions for endemic and emerging diseases in Gambian wildlife and livestock.
What Is Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities In Gambia?
Vivarium and animal research facilities in The Gambia refer to specialized infrastructure and services dedicated to the ethical housing, breeding, care, and utilization of animals for scientific research, education, and diagnostic purposes. These facilities are designed to maintain animals in controlled environments that meet specific physiological, behavioral, and health requirements, thereby ensuring the integrity and reproducibility of research outcomes. They are integral to biomedical research, pharmaceutical development, veterinary science, and public health initiatives. The operational framework typically encompasses animal husbandry, veterinary care, environmental monitoring, biosafety measures, and adherence to stringent ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks governing animal welfare.
| Who Needs Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities? | Typical Use Cases | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Research Institutions and Universities: Conducting basic science, biomedical, and health-related research. | Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies: Drug discovery and development, preclinical testing, toxicology studies. | Government Health Agencies: Disease surveillance, vaccine development, public health research. | Veterinary Research and Training Centers: Studies on animal diseases, development of veterinary treatments, and training of veterinary professionals. | Diagnostic Laboratories: Production of biological reagents, diagnostic kits, and animal models for disease diagnosis. | ||
| Disease Modeling: Creating animal models to study human and animal diseases (e.g., infectious diseases, cancer, metabolic disorders). | Drug Efficacy and Safety Testing: Evaluating the effectiveness and potential side effects of new therapeutic agents. | Vaccine Development and Testing: Assessing the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of novel vaccines. | Toxicology Studies: Determining the adverse effects of chemicals and substances on biological systems. | Surgical Procedure Development and Training: Practicing and refining surgical techniques. | Genetic Engineering and Transgenesis: Creating genetically modified animals for specific research purposes. | Basic Biological Research: Investigating fundamental biological processes, cellular mechanisms, and physiological functions. |
Key Aspects of Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities in The Gambia
- Animal Housing and Husbandry: Provision of species-appropriate enclosures, bedding, environmental enrichment, and dietary regimes to ensure animal well-being and minimize stress.
- Veterinary Care and Health Monitoring: Comprehensive veterinary services, including preventative care, disease surveillance, diagnostics, treatment, and surgical support, managed by qualified veterinarians and technicians.
- Environmental Control and Monitoring: Maintenance of precise control over environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, light cycles, ventilation, and air filtration to optimize animal health and experimental conditions.
- Biosecurity and Containment: Implementation of robust biosecurity protocols to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases, including access control, sanitation, waste management, and potential containment strategies for specific pathogens.
- Ethical Oversight and Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to national and international ethical guidelines for animal use in research (e.g., principles of the 3Rs: Replacement, Reduction, Refinement), and compliance with relevant legislation and institutional animal care and use committee (IACUC) or equivalent review board requirements.
- Breeding Programs: Management of breeding colonies for specific animal strains and genotypes to ensure a consistent and genetically characterized supply for research.
- Research Support Services: Assistance with experimental design, animal handling techniques, sample collection, and data recording to facilitate research activities.
- Training and Education: Provision of training programs for researchers and technicians on responsible animal care, handling, and experimental procedures.
Who Needs Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities In Gambia?
The establishment and maintenance of vivarium and animal research facilities in The Gambia are crucial for advancing scientific understanding, improving public health, and fostering economic development. These facilities provide a controlled environment for the ethical and responsible use of animals in research, enabling breakthroughs in areas such as disease diagnosis, treatment development, and vaccine testing. They are essential for training future scientists, supporting collaborations with international research institutions, and ultimately enhancing the quality of life for Gambians and beyond.
| Target Customer/Department | Specific Needs & Applications | Potential Research Areas |
|---|---|---|
| University of The Gambia (Faculty of Medicine & Allied Health Sciences, Faculty of Science) | In vivo studies for disease mechanisms, drug efficacy testing, surgical training, physiological research. | Infectious diseases (malaria, HIV, tuberculosis), non-communicable diseases, tropical medicine, parasitology. |
| Gambia Ministry of Health (Disease Control Units, National Public Health Laboratory) | Disease surveillance, vaccine efficacy testing, diagnostic development, understanding pathogen behavior. | Vector-borne diseases, zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, public health interventions. |
| Gambia Ministry of Agriculture (Department of Livestock Services, Veterinary Services) | Research into animal diseases, development of veterinary vaccines and treatments, livestock health management. | Animal disease outbreaks, parasitic infections, productivity enhancement in livestock, wildlife health. |
| The Gambia Medical Research Council (MRC Unit The Gambia at LSHTM) | In-depth research into endemic diseases, clinical trials, understanding host-pathogen interactions. | Malaria, tuberculosis, diarrheal diseases, maternal and child health, genetics of disease susceptibility. |
| Local and International NGOs (e.g., Wildlife Conservation Society, WWF) | Wildlife health monitoring, research into conservation strategies, impact of environmental changes on animal populations. | Conservation biology, wildlife diseases, habitat impact studies, ecotoxicology. |
| Emerging Pharmaceutical/Biotech Startups | Pre-clinical testing of novel drugs and therapies, safety and efficacy studies. | Neglected tropical diseases, novel antimicrobial agents, diagnostic platforms. |
| Training Institutions (e.g., Medical Schools, Veterinary Colleges) | Hands-on training for students in experimental procedures, animal handling, and ethical research practices. | Fundamental biological sciences, comparative anatomy, physiology, pharmacology. |
Target Customers and Departments for Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities in The Gambia
- {"item":"Academic and Research Institutions","description":"Universities, colleges, and dedicated research centers that conduct fundamental and applied biological, medical, and veterinary research."}
- {"item":"Government Ministries and Agencies","description":"Ministries of Health, Agriculture, and Environment for disease surveillance, veterinary public health, and conservation research."}
- {"item":"Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies","description":"Local or international entities involved in drug discovery, development, and efficacy testing."}
- {"item":"Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)","description":"Organizations focused on public health, animal welfare, and conservation that may require animal models for specific projects."}
- {"item":"Veterinary Services and Diagnostic Laboratories","description":"For research into animal diseases, development of diagnostics, and testing of veterinary treatments."}
- {"item":"Educational and Training Programs","description":"Institutions offering courses in biology, medicine, veterinary science, and related fields that require hands-on experience with animal models."}
Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities Process In Gambia
This document outlines the typical workflow for establishing and operating Vivarium and Animal Research Facilities in The Gambia, from the initial inquiry to the full execution of research activities. The process is designed to ensure ethical treatment of animals, adherence to scientific standards, and compliance with national regulations.
| Stage | Key Activities | Responsible Parties | Key Deliverables/Outcomes | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prospective researchers/institutions contact relevant authorities (e.g., Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture, university research ethics committees) to understand requirements, regulations, and procedures for establishing animal research facilities. | Prospective Researcher/Institution, Regulatory Bodies | Information on regulations, guidelines, and preliminary feasibility assessment. | 1-2 Weeks |
| Submission of a detailed research proposal that includes justification for animal use, experimental design, species, numbers, welfare considerations, and personnel qualifications. Proposal is reviewed by an institutional or national Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) or equivalent body. | Researcher/Institution, Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) | Approved research protocol, identification of ethical concerns and required modifications. | 4-8 Weeks |
| Formal ethical approval is granted by the AEC after satisfactory addressing of any concerns raised during the review process. This is a prerequisite for proceeding to facility development and animal procurement. | Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) | Official Ethical Approval Letter. | 1-2 Weeks (after proposal review) |
| Design and construction or renovation of vivarium facilities to meet specific animal housing needs, biosecurity requirements, safety standards, and waste management protocols. Includes ventilation, temperature/humidity control, lighting, and containment. | Researcher/Institution, Architects, Construction Teams, Animal Welfare Experts | Compliant vivarium infrastructure. | 3-12 Months (depending on scale) |
| Sourcing of laboratory animals from approved suppliers, ensuring proper health status and genetic background. Procurement of necessary equipment for housing, care, experimentation, and monitoring. | Researcher/Institution, Approved Animal Suppliers, Equipment Vendors | Healthy animals, functional research equipment. | 2-6 Weeks |
| Ensuring all personnel involved in animal care and research are adequately trained in animal handling, welfare, experimental procedures, euthanasia, and biosafety. Certification may be required. | Researcher/Institution, Training Providers | Qualified and competent research and animal care staff. | Ongoing, initial training can take 2-4 Weeks |
| Development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of animal care, husbandry, health monitoring, experimental procedures, waste disposal, emergency preparedness, and record-keeping. | Researcher/Institution, Animal Care Staff, Veterinarians | Comprehensive SOP manual. | 2-4 Weeks |
| Obtaining necessary licenses and permits from relevant government ministries and regulatory bodies to operate the vivarium and conduct animal research. | Researcher/Institution, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture, etc. | Valid operating licenses and research permits. | 4-12 Weeks |
| Daily care of animals including feeding, watering, cage cleaning, health monitoring, and enrichment. Ongoing veterinary oversight and proactive welfare assessment. | Animal Care Staff, Veterinarians | Healthy and well-cared-for animal colony. | Continuous |
| Conducting approved experiments according to the research protocol and SOPs. Careful monitoring of animals and meticulous recording of observations and data. | Researchers, Research Assistants | Generated research data. | Duration of the research project |
| Organizing, analyzing, and securely storing research data. Preparing reports for internal review, scientific publications, and regulatory submissions. | Researchers, Data Analysts | Analyzed data, research reports, publications. | Ongoing and post-project |
| Regular maintenance of the vivarium and equipment. Periodic internal and external audits to ensure compliance with regulations, ethical standards, and SOPs. | Facility Management, Researchers, Regulatory Bodies, External Auditors | Well-maintained facility, compliance reports, audit findings and corrective actions. | Continuous and periodic |
Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities Process in Gambia: Workflow
- Inquiry & Initial Consultation
- Proposal Submission & Review
- Ethical Approval
- Facility Design & Construction/Renovation
- Procurement of Animals & Equipment
- Staff Training & Qualification
- Operational Protocols Development
- License & Permit Acquisition
- Animal Husbandry & Welfare Management
- Research Execution
- Data Management & Reporting
- Facility Maintenance & Audits
Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities Cost In Gambia
Establishing and maintaining vivarium and animal research facilities in The Gambia involves a range of costs influenced by several factors. These include the scale and complexity of the facility, the types of animals to be housed, the specific research equipment required, and ongoing operational expenses. Pricing can vary significantly based on the quality of materials, the level of containment needed (e.g., biosafety levels), and the availability of specialized services and expertise within the country. It is crucial to consider both initial capital investment and recurring operational and maintenance costs when budgeting for such facilities in The Gambia.
| Category | Estimated Cost Range (GMD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small-Scale Laboratory Vivarium (e.g., for rodents) | 1,000,000 - 5,000,000 | Initial setup for a basic facility, including cages, environmental controls, and essential equipment. Excludes land acquisition and major construction. |
| Medium-Scale Research Facility (e.g., for rodents & small non-human primates) | 5,000,000 - 20,000,000 | Includes more advanced containment, multiple animal rooms, specialized equipment, and potentially a small surgical suite. Costs can escalate with higher biosafety levels. |
| Large-Scale / Specialized Facility (e.g., for larger animals or complex containment) | 20,000,000+ | Significant investment for dedicated buildings, advanced life support systems, sophisticated research labs, and high-level biocontainment. Highly variable based on specific requirements. |
| Annual Operational Costs (per facility) | 500,000 - 5,000,000+ | Covers consumables, utilities, staffing, maintenance, and animal care. Highly dependent on the size, activity level, and complexity of research. |
| Per Cage/Enclosure (Annual Maintenance & Consumables) | 5,000 - 50,000 | Estimates for bedding, feed, cleaning, and basic health monitoring per unit. Varies greatly by animal species and housing complexity. |
| Specialized Equipment (e.g., Autoclave, Incubator) | 200,000 - 1,000,000 | Cost for individual pieces of essential research or sterilization equipment. Larger, more sophisticated instruments will be at the higher end. |
Key Cost Factors for Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities in The Gambia
- Facility Design & Construction: The size, layout, and specialized features (e.g., ventilation, waste management, security) will significantly impact construction costs.
- Animal Housing & Caging: The type, number, and quality of cages, racks, and enclosures, as well as specialized housing for different species (e.g., aquatic tanks, aviaries).
- Environmental Control Systems: Costs associated with heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), humidity control, and lighting systems to maintain precise environmental conditions.
- Specialized Equipment: Purchase and installation of equipment for animal care, handling, diagnostics, surgery, and research (e.g., autoclaves, incubators, microscopes, specialized analytical instruments).
- Consumables & Supplies: Ongoing costs for animal feed, bedding, cleaning supplies, veterinary drugs, and laboratory reagents.
- Personnel Costs: Salaries for skilled personnel, including veterinarians, animal technicians, researchers, and facility managers.
- Utilities: Costs for electricity, water, and waste disposal, which can be substantial for facilities with high environmental control demands.
- Maintenance & Repairs: Regular upkeep of equipment, infrastructure, and environmental control systems.
- Licensing & Regulatory Compliance: Fees associated with obtaining necessary permits and adhering to ethical and safety regulations.
- Biosecurity & Containment: Costs for implementing and maintaining biosecurity measures, especially for facilities housing pathogens or requiring high containment levels.
- Animal Acquisition: The initial cost of purchasing or sourcing animals for research.
Affordable Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities Options
Establishing dedicated vivarium and animal research facilities can be a significant undertaking, both in terms of capital investment and ongoing operational costs. However, by understanding value bundles and implementing smart cost-saving strategies, institutions can access high-quality facilities and equipment without breaking the budget. This guide explores options for affordable vivarium setup and maintenance, focusing on maximizing value and minimizing expenditure.
| Value Bundle Option | Description | Key Cost-Saving Strategies | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Research Vivarium Package | Includes essential components for standard laboratory animal housing (e.g., caging, basic environmental controls, simple sanitation equipment). | Purchasing in bulk, opting for standard cage sizes, selecting durable but less feature-rich equipment, DIY assembly where appropriate. | Start-up labs, academic research groups with limited budgets, projects with less stringent containment needs. |
| Modular & Expandable System | Consists of pre-fabricated modules that can be easily assembled and expanded. Often includes integrated HVAC and electrical systems. | Phased purchasing of modules, pre-negotiated installation contracts, utilizing existing building infrastructure. | Research institutions expecting growth, facilities requiring flexibility for different species or containment levels. |
| Pre-Owned Equipment Package | A curated selection of certified, refurbished vivarium equipment, including caging, racks, sterilizers, and environmental monitoring devices. | Thorough vetting of refurbished equipment, extended warranties on used items, bulk discounts on package deals. | Budget-conscious institutions, research projects with fluctuating needs, labs prioritizing functional over brand-new equipment. |
| Shared Facility Services | Access to a fully equipped and managed vivarium space on a per-use or subscription basis. May include animal husbandry, technical support, and basic veterinary services. | Reduced capital outlay, predictable operating costs, economies of scale for consumables and staff. | Individual researchers, small biotech companies, institutions with intermittent or specialized vivarium needs. |
| Energy-Efficient Upgrade Package | Focuses on upgrading existing infrastructure with energy-saving technologies such as LED lighting, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and smart environmental controls. | Government rebates and incentives, long-term operational cost reduction, improved sustainability profile. | Existing facilities looking to reduce operational expenses and environmental impact. |
Key Considerations for Affordable Vivarium Facilities:
- Needs Assessment: Clearly define the specific requirements of your research (species, containment levels, environmental controls, throughput) to avoid overspending on unnecessary features.
- Phased Development: Consider a staged approach to facility build-out or equipment acquisition. Start with essential components and expand as research needs and funding grow.
- Modular & Scalable Solutions: Opt for modular vivarium systems and equipment that can be easily reconfigured or expanded, offering flexibility for future research directions.
- Off-the-Shelf vs. Custom: While custom solutions offer tailored features, standard, commercially available equipment often provides a more cost-effective starting point.
- Shared Resource Models: Explore collaborations with other institutions or departments to share expensive equipment, specialized expertise, and even facility space.
- Used & Refurbished Equipment: Consider purchasing high-quality used or refurbished vivarium equipment from reputable vendors. This can offer substantial savings compared to new purchases.
- Energy Efficiency: Incorporate energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and equipment to reduce long-term operational costs.
Verified Providers In Gambia
When seeking healthcare services in Gambia, the assurance of verified providers is paramount. Franance Health stands out as a premier choice, distinguished by its rigorous credentialing process and commitment to quality care. This dedication translates into a network of healthcare professionals who not only possess the necessary qualifications but also adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards. Choosing Franance Health means entrusting your well-being to a system that prioritizes patient safety, expertise, and a holistic approach to healthcare.
| Credential Category | Franance Health Verification Standard | Patient Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Licenses & Certifications | Valid, current, and in good standing with relevant national and international bodies. | Ensures providers are legally authorized and possess foundational medical knowledge. |
| Academic Qualifications | Verified degrees and diplomas from accredited institutions. | Confirms rigorous theoretical and practical training. |
| Professional Experience | Thorough review of past employment, references, and practice history. | Demonstrates practical application of skills and experience in real-world settings. |
| Specialty Training & Board Certification | Verification of completion for specialized residency programs and board certifications. | Guarantees advanced expertise in specific medical fields. |
| Continuing Medical Education (CME) | Mandatory participation and documentation of ongoing professional development. | Ensures providers remain current with the latest medical research and techniques. |
| Background Checks & Ethical Conduct | Comprehensive review of professional history and adherence to ethical codes. | Upholds patient safety, trust, and professional integrity. |
Why Franance Health Credentials Represent the Best Choice:
- Rigorous Verification Process: Franance Health implements a multi-stage credentialing procedure that scrutinizes the academic qualifications, licenses, certifications, and professional experience of every provider.
- Commitment to Excellence: Beyond basic requirements, Franance Health actively seeks out providers with a proven track record of patient satisfaction, continuous professional development, and a commitment to advanced medical practices.
- Patient-Centric Approach: The credentialing process emphasizes soft skills and ethical conduct, ensuring that Franance Health providers are not only medically competent but also compassionate, communicative, and dedicated to patient well-being.
- Specialized Expertise: Franance Health maintains a diverse network of specialists, meticulously verified for their specific areas of expertise, allowing patients to access the most appropriate care for their unique needs.
- Up-to-Date Qualifications: Providers within the Franance Health network are required to maintain current licenses and certifications, ensuring they are up-to-date with the latest medical advancements and best practices.
- Trust and Transparency: The verified status of Franance Health providers offers patients peace of mind, knowing they are receiving care from qualified and reputable professionals.
Scope Of Work For Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities
This document outlines the Scope of Work (SOW) for the design, construction, and commissioning of a new Vivarium and Animal Research Facilities. It details the technical deliverables and standard specifications required to ensure a compliant, functional, and state-of-the-art research environment. The SOW covers all aspects from initial planning and design through to operational readiness and handover.
| Category | Deliverable | Standard Specification Reference | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | Architectural Drawings | ASHRAE 170, NIH Design Requirements Manual | Layouts, elevations, sections, and details for all vivarium and research spaces, including housing rooms, procedure rooms, labs, support areas, and administrative spaces. |
| Design | MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) Drawings | ASHRAE 170, NFPA 70, Local Building Codes | Detailed plans for HVAC systems (air changes, pressure differentials, filtration), electrical distribution, lighting, plumbing (water supply, drainage, sterilization), and medical gas systems. |
| Design | Vivarium Specific Systems Design | AAALAC International Standards, USDA Guidelines | Design of cage wash systems, autoclaves, animal handling equipment, waste disposal systems, and specialized environmental controls. |
| Design | Equipment Specifications | Manufacturer Data Sheets, Industry Best Practices | Detailed specifications for all major equipment, including autoclaves, sterilizers, cage washers, bedding handling systems, HVAC units, and lab equipment. |
| Design | Biosecurity & Containment Plan | CDC Biosafety Levels, NIH Guidelines | Strategies and design elements to ensure appropriate containment levels for research activities and protection of personnel and the environment. |
| Construction | Materials & Finishes Schedule | Industry Standards (e.g., ASTM, ISO), Antimicrobial Surfaces | Selection of durable, cleanable, and appropriate materials for all surfaces, including floors, walls, ceilings, and casework, meeting hygiene and operational requirements. |
| Construction | HVAC System Installation & Testing | ASHRAE 170, Commissioning Guidelines | Installation of HVAC systems ensuring adherence to design specifications, including airflow, pressure differentials, temperature, and humidity control. Performance testing and balancing. |
| Construction | Plumbing & Water Systems Installation & Testing | Local Plumbing Codes, NSF Standards | Installation of water supply, drainage, and sterilization systems for animal care and research activities. Testing for leaks and performance. |
| Construction | Electrical & Lighting Installation & Testing | NFPA 70, Lighting Design Standards | Installation of power distribution, emergency power, and appropriate lighting for all areas, ensuring safety and functional requirements. |
| Commissioning | Integrated Systems Testing (IST) | ASHRAE Guideline 0, NEBB Standards | Testing of all building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, security) in an integrated manner to verify operational performance and interdependencies. |
| Commissioning | Vivarium Specific System Validation | AAALAC International Standards, USDA Guidelines | Validation of cage wash, autoclave, and sterilization systems to ensure efficacy and compliance with animal welfare and research protocols. |
| Commissioning | Environmental Monitoring System Calibration | Manufacturer Specifications, NIST Traceable Standards | Calibration and verification of all environmental monitoring sensors (temperature, humidity, CO2, etc.) to ensure accurate data collection. |
| Commissioning | Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) Verification | OSHA Standards, Institutional Safety Policies | Verification of safety features, emergency systems, and compliance with OHS regulations. |
| Handover | As-Built Drawings | Industry Standards | Accurate representation of the final constructed facility, including all modifications made during construction. |
| Handover | Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Manuals | Manufacturer Data Sheets, Industry Best Practices | Comprehensive manuals for all installed equipment and systems, including operating procedures, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting guides, and spare parts lists. |
| Handover | Training Manuals & Sessions | User Requirements | Documentation and training for facility staff on the operation and maintenance of the vivarium and research equipment. |
| Handover | Warranty Information | Contractual Agreements | Documentation detailing warranties for all equipment, materials, and workmanship. |
Key Project Phases & Deliverables
- Phase 1: Planning & Conceptual Design
- Phase 2: Detailed Design & Engineering
- Phase 3: Procurement & Construction
- Phase 4: Commissioning & Validation
- Phase 5: Handover & Closeout
Service Level Agreement For Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities
This Service Level Agreement (SLA) outlines the guaranteed response times and uptime for the Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities. It is designed to ensure the continuous and reliable operation of these critical resources, supporting the research and welfare of all animals housed within.
| Service Area/Issue Type | Uptime Guarantee | Response Time (Critical Issue) | Response Time (Non-Critical Issue) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Control Systems (HVAC, Lighting, Humidity) | 99.5% | Within 1 hour of notification | Within 4 business hours of notification |
| Essential Animal Care Equipment (e.g., autoclaves, water systems) | 99.5% | Within 2 hours of notification | Within 8 business hours of notification |
| Facility Access Control & Security Systems | 99.5% | Within 30 minutes of notification | Within 4 business hours of notification |
| Routine Maintenance & General Inquiries | N/A (Service provided during business hours) | N/A | Within 24 business hours of notification |
Key Service Commitments
- Uptime Guarantee: Vivarium & Animal Research Facilities will maintain an uptime of 99.5% for all essential services, including environmental controls (temperature, humidity, ventilation), lighting, and basic animal care equipment.
- Response Times for Critical Issues: A critical issue is defined as any event that poses an immediate threat to animal welfare or research integrity. This includes, but is not limited to, complete system failures, significant environmental deviations outside safe parameters, or major equipment malfunctions impacting multiple animal rooms.
- Response Times for Non-Critical Issues: A non-critical issue is defined as a problem that does not pose an immediate threat to animal welfare or research integrity but still requires attention. This includes, but is not limited to, minor equipment malfunctions, requests for routine maintenance, or inquiries regarding standard operating procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions

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