Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals - Office of ...

PhySICAL PLANT 141Power and LightingThe electrical system should be safe and provide appropriate lighting,a sufficient number of power outlets, and suitable amperage for specializedequipment. In the event of power failure, an alternative or emergency powersupply should be available to maintain critical services (e.g., the HVACsystem, ventilated caging systems [Huerkamp et al. 2003], or life supportsystems for aquatic species) or support functions (e.g., freezers and isolators)in animal rooms, operating suites, and other essential areas. Considerationshould be given to outfitting movable equipment for which uninterruptedpower is essential (e.g., ventilated racks), with twist-lock plugs to preventaccidental removal from the power supply.Light fixtures, timers, switches, and outlets should be properly sealedto prevent vermin access. Recessed energy-efficient fluorescent lightsare commonly used in animal facilities. Spectral quality of lights may beimportant for some species when maintained in the laboratory; in thesecases full spectrum lamps may be appropriate. A time-controlled lightingsystem should be used to ensure a uniform diurnal lighting cycle. Overridesystems should be equipped with an automatic timeout or a warning lightto indicate the system is in override mode, and system performance andoverride functions should be regularly evaluated to ensure proper cycling.Dual-level lighting may be considered when housing species that are sensitiveto high light intensity, such as albino rodents; low-intensity lightingis provided during the light phase of the diurnal cycle, and higher-intensitylighting is provided as needed (e.g., when personnel require enhancedvisibility). Light bulbs or fixtures should be equipped with protective coversto ensure the safety of the animals and personnel. Moisture-resistantswitches and outlets and ground-fault interrupters should be used in areaswith high water use, such as cage-washing areas and aquarium-maintenanceareas.Storage AreasAdequate space should be available for storage of equipment, supplies,food, bedding, and refuse. Corridors are not appropriate storage areas.Storage space can be decreased when delivery of materials and supplies isreliable and frequent; however, it should be ample enough to accommodatestorage of essential commodities to ensure the animals’ uninterruptedhusbandry and care (e.g., if delivery is delayed). Bedding and food shouldbe stored in a separate area free from vermin and protected from the riskof contamination from toxic or hazardous substances. Areas used for foodstorage should not be subject to elevated temperatures or relative humidityfor prolonged periods. Refuse storage areas should be separated from other