Ventilation and environmental quality in laboratory animal facilities

Ventilation strategies for improving thermal and air quality conditions in laboratory animal facilities were formulated. Laboratory animal ventilation systems were designed to provide acceptable environmental conditions within the room and cages. There is limited information on ventilation rates, room air distribution, and other factors required to maintain acceptable and uniform environment in all animal cages. Research shows that the recommended room air exchange rate of 10 to 15 air changes per hour is energy intensive and does not ensure adequate air quality for laboratory animals. Survey results also show that designers prefer laminar flow ceiling diffusers, low exhaust location, and small laboratory rooms.