NOTE: References will be updated following publication of the final version of the Guide, 8th Edition (PDF download – 893 KB).

Location: animal areas separate from personnel areas, separation of species, separation by disease status Construction: corridors, doors, windows, floors, drainage, walls, ceilings, HVAC, power & lighting, noise Room/cage: temperature, humidity, ventilation, illumination, noise control Cage/run: - sanitation, cleaning tools, food/water access, security, safety, allows undisturbed observation - size15, rationale for Guide/ USDA exceptions, meets physiologic, behavioral16, social17 needs Sheltered or outdoor housing (barns, corrals, pastures, islands): - weather protection, ventilation & sanitation of shelters (no waste/moisture build-up) - animal acclimation, social compatibility, roundup/restraint procedures, security Behavioral management: environmental enrichment, social grouping, animal activity Food: - feeding schedule & procedures, contamination, vendor quality control - storage in sealed containers, expiration date labeling, vermin control, rotation of stocks Water: ad libitum unless justified, QC procedures Bedding: species appropriate, keeps animals dry, QC procedures, minimizes scientific variables Sanitation: frequency of bedding change (note Guide exceptions), cleaning & disinfection, monitoring Waste disposal: procedures for collection, storage & disposal of waste; hazardous waste; animal carcasses Pest control: regularly scheduled, documented program including control of rodent pests & insecticide use Emergency, weekend, & holiday animal care: provision for accessible contact information, monitoring of backup systems, veterinary care, a disaster plan that takes into account both personnel and animals Animal identification and records cage/rack cards contain required information, clinical records accessible and appropriate Genetics and nomenclature: appropriate genetic records & monitoring procedures, use of standardized nomenclature Storage: food and bedding, supplies, drugs & biologics, waste material, hazardous material, carcasses Personnel: locker rooms, administration and training Specialized space: receiving, quarantine, isolation, necropsy, radiography, diet preparation
LOCATION	*A	M	S	NOTES
*A = acceptable; M = minor deficiency; S = significant deficiency (is or may be a threat to animal health or safety)

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