CAGE PROCESSING in Animal Facilities - GV-SOLAS

• When transferring cages with dirty bedding out of a barrier area by means of autoclaving, the cages shouldbe made of either polysulfone, polyetherimide, or polyphenylsulfone (please refer to chapter 4.5.1). Thisalso applies for cages filled with highly resinous bedding (please refer to chapter 9.1).• When autoclaving and where the release of bisphenol A is not permitted or wanted, processing items madeof polycarbonate is to be avoided.3.2.2 Stainless steelStainless steel is often used and well suited for processing items in animal facilities. Usually, so-called “V2Asteels”are used (AISI 304). What is essential, in all cases, is the machining and working of the steel, especiallythe pre-machining and finishing of welds and surfaces.Stainless steel, however, can be damaged when in contact with chlorines (e.g. hydrochloric acid,please refer to chapter 9.5).3.3 Information on item designYou will find a detailed description of required cage dimensions in the guidelines of the GV-SOLAS and theAppendix A of the European Council, ETS 123 (please refer to chapter 10). Therefore, dimensions will not bediscussed here. Please note, however, the following advice regarding the design of items for processing:• Sharp edges are dangerous for humans and animals; they can be avoided by careful deburring.• Cavities are difficult to clean and should be avoided, for example, hollow section structures should be fullywelded.• “Cavities” should be avoided, without causing functional limitations.• A joint-free design is recommended in order to avoid dirt traps (hygiene) and capillary action (drying).• Flat surfaces are recommended for easy cleaning and drying.• Ergonomic aspects should be considered, for example the use of 18 bottle crates instead of 36, or the useof height-adjustable cage changing stations.• Items should be stackable for effective use of transport and storage space.• The design of the items should be maintenance-friendly, for example filters and other components to bemaintained should be easily accessible.4 Cage processing procedure4.1 Transport and storage systemsUsually, in order to be washed and sterilised, all items are transferred into and out of the animal housing area.The items are moved constantly and therefore they should be easy transportable in all areas (animal rooms,hallways, processing centre) and usually dedicated for temporary storage. Hence, the same systems shouldbe used inside and outside the animal housing area. The items are moved with so-called transport and storagetrolleys that case by case pass through the same washing and if applicable steam sterilisation processparallel to the other items. This should be considered when planning the capacity and design of washers andsterilisers.Below you will find a description of general requirements, some examples of transport and storage trolleys, aswell as design, construction and materials.4.1.1 General requirements of transport and storage systemsTo ensure a smooth workflow, transport and storage systems used in animal facilities should meet the followingrequirements:• Transport and storage trolley systems should match the total facility layout (doors, lifts, washers, sterilisers,and locks) as well as the items to be processed (please refer to chapter 3).• For a better planning, the capacity required for transport, storage, and steam sterilisation should be examinedin advance. When selecting suitable transport and storage trolleys, the manufacturers of thoseshould be contacted for assistance.10Cage Processing in Animal Facilities · 4th issue · 2013