ABSTRACT
Research facilities today are frequently confronted by the challenges of adapting to new research techniques, emerging animal models, and animal research that poses potential hazards to animals and personnel. Accurately communicating objectives in an animal laboratory setting is vital, and therefore, so is a good understanding of the appropriate terminology. Performing a risk assessment is the foundation of a good bioexclusion program. To initiate any risk assessment, the hazards or concerns need to be accurately identified and then ranked on the basis of their likelihood of occurrence and potential impact. While appropriate bioexclusion practices are the cornerstone of an effective animal research facility, it is simply not practicable to exclude all pathogens. In determining the likelihood of an agent entering the animal colony, the risk assessment needs to consider transmission of the organisms. Periodic pathogen monitoring is necessary to detect changes in the health status of an animal colony.
