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Comprehensive Guide Scientific Planning of Functional Zoning for Animal Laboratories

Created on 2025.03.28
Animal laboratories play a vital role in life sciences, biomedical research, and drug development. Proper functional zoning not only improves experimental efficiency and data accuracy but also ensures biosafety, animal welfare, and personnel health.
As a company with long-term experience in cleanroom engineering and purification equipment, Guangzhou Cleanroom Construction Co., Ltd. has participated in the construction and upgrading of numerous animal laboratories. Based on practical experience, we share key principles for scientific functional zoning design.
Sterile lab room with organized rows of containers on shelves.

1. Preliminary Planning: Define Objectives and Scale

Different research objectives require different laboratory layouts:
  • Drug R&D laboratories
emphasize compliant animal housing, experimental operation, and sample analysis areas
  • Behavioral research laboratories
prioritize observation-friendly environments and monitoring systems
At the planning stage, it is essential to clarify:
  • Animal species and quantities
  • Experimental types and workflows
  • Current and future expansion needs
These factors determine laboratory size, zoning proportions, and infrastructure requirements.

2. Five Core Functional Zones

2.1 Animal Rearing Area

As the core zone of the animal laboratory, animals should be housed by species, strain, and experimental purpose to prevent cross-contamination.
Recommended environmental parameters:
  • Temperature:
18–29°C
  • Relative Humidity:
40%–70%
  • Air Change Rate:
10–20 ACH
  • Lighting Cycle:
12 h light / 12 h dark
Advanced air purification systems effectively remove dust and microorganisms, ensuring a stable and healthy breeding environment.

2.2 Experimental Operation Area

This area supports procedures such as surgery, sampling, and drug administration.
Key design principles:
  • Separation of
aseptic and non-aseptic areas
  • High air cleanliness through purification systems
  • Installation of
biosafety cabinets, fume hoods, and exhaust systems
These measures minimize contamination risks and protect laboratory personnel.

2.3 Observation and Recording Area

Designed for monitoring animal behavior and physiological indicators.
Key features include:
  • One-way observation windows to avoid disturbing animals
  • Clear sightlines for comprehensive observation
  • 24-hour video monitoring and data recording systems
This setup supports accurate behavioral analysis and data traceability.

2.4 Cleaning and Disinfection Area

Essential for preventing cross-contamination.
Functional zoning should include:
  • Cleaning area
  • Disinfection area
  • Drying area
Equipment such as autoclaves and chemical disinfection systems ensure complete sterilization of cages, instruments, and tools.

2.5 Waste Disposal Area

Strict waste management is critical for biosafety and environmental compliance.
  • Animal carcasses: transferred to certified disposal institutions
  • Waste liquids: treated via neutralization and precipitation
  • Disposable consumables: disinfected and disposed of as medical waste

3. Passageways and Buffer Rooms Design

To control contamination risks, laboratories should implement:
  • Separate passageways for
personnel, animals, and materials
  • Buffer rooms between functional zones
Buffer rooms should be equipped with:
  • Handwashing stations
  • Changing rooms
  • Air showers and purification devices
This ensures controlled movement and environmental integrity.

4. Operation, Maintenance, and Continuous Optimization

Post-construction, animal laboratories require:
  • Regular inspection and maintenance
  • Continuous monitoring of environmental parameters
  • Timely layout optimization based on evolving research needs
This ensures long-term compliance, efficiency, and adaptability.

Conclusion

Scientific functional zoning is the foundation of a safe, efficient, and compliant animal laboratory. With extensive industry experience and advanced purification technologies, Guangzhou Cleanroom Construction Co., Ltd. provides comprehensive animal laboratory solutions that support cutting-edge scientific research.
If you are planning or upgrading an animal laboratory, feel free to contact us for professional consultation and customized solutions.
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