Standard Operating Procedure for the removal of dead animals from the spf unit

  1. Purpose:
    This procedure details how to remove a dead animal from the SPF unit.

  2. Scope:
    This procedure applies to all CMLAF and principal investigator personnel working in the SPF unit.

  3. Procedure:
    1. Dead animals should be removed and disposed properly to avoid cross contamination of other animals in the facility.
    2. The CMLAF strongly urges that all dead animals receive a necropsy unless tissues are required by the research project.
      • Any animals found dead unexpectedly or showing unusual lesions should be submitted for post mortem.
      • Necropsies requested by the PI for research purposes will be subject to the standard fees.
    3. Removal
      1. Remove carcass from cage and place into plastic bag (found in drawer in the procedure room).
        • If dead animal contains a Biohazard (human tumor cells), place carcass in appropriate Biohazard bag, place in fridge and notify PI.
        • DO NOT remove Biohazard carcass from SPF facility other than for incineration. If animals are from biohazard room, before leaving the animal holding room, spray the outside of bag with Spor Klenz or MB10.
      2. Place bag in the pass-through window.
      3. Place a Mortality Tracking Label on the bag and complete all information requested.
      4. Place bag in the refrigerator located in 175A.
      5. The animal care staff will notify the PI or lab of any animals found dead. He/she will determine from the PI if the carcass is to be saved for them, or can be submitted for veterinary necropsy.
      6. If the carcass must be saved for the PI, it should be placed in the bin labeled “SAVE for PI” in the fridge.
      7. If a necropsy is requested, it should be placed in the other bin labeled “SAVED for PM’, include any history and treatments that the animal has received.
      8. The animal care staff will check the refrigerator at the end of each day for carcasses, transfer them to the 3rd floor post mortem room and notify CMLAF veterinary staff of any necropsies to be performed>
      9. The animal care staff will dispose of any carcasses that have been “SAVED for PI” which are older than 3 days.