CHLOÉ, PROJECT MANAGER AT ER2I, PRESENTS THE SPECIFICS OF DESIGNING AND BUILDING AN ANIMAL FACILITY THROUGH HER EXPERIENCE
How is an animal facility organized?
Chloé « Before starting an animal facility project, it is important to consider the type of animals, the type of living quarters, the number of animals, the type of treatment or experiments and protection for the staff.This will determine the requirements during the design phase and enable compliance with the health status.There are different types of areas in an animal facility, including laboratories as well as annex and technical areas ».
What are the design specifics?
Chloé « An animal facility is designed in close collaboration with the veterinarians on the site who know the needs of their animals, but they have little technical knowledge of the building.Regular updates must be arranged to anticipate requests.For this type of project, it is important to consider the environment of the animals and the environment of the staff.During the design process, health safety related to the activity of the animal facility, safety in accordance with the labor code and fire safety must also be taken into consideration.Safety factors are also taken into consideration, such as the organization of access controls and the installation of alarm systems and the choice of intrusion-resistant materials »
What are the specific technical elements for this type of building?
Chloé « It is important to bear in mind that animals have a high degree of adaptability and intelligence.The finishing works must be adapted to the type of animals present in the facility.The focus of attention needs to be on the level of tightness.The partitions must withstand the chemical and mechanical stresses.They must provide optimal containment and comply with fire safety standards.As far as electricity is concerned, the main specificity of animal facilities is that they use lights with variable lighting cycles and forced control at night.As for the plumbing, we have a filtered soft water supply.We propose isolation valves that can be reached from outside the premises and we must plan for the treatment of wastewater.
Finally, in HVAC, there are air handling units, hygrometry control by steam vent tubes, a pressure cascade for the rooms and a centralized technical management system with reporting of all faults.Once again, it is important to use technology to serve the needs of the animals and the safety of staff and the environment ».
Can you tell us about ER2i’s strengths for these projects and what you have experienced?
Chloé « ER2i’s strength lies in its experience. We have designed ten animal facilities to date and built six buildings for different clients with different species of animals.Furthermore, the multidisciplinary nature of the Engineering Design Office means that we have consultants in each field (Elec, HVAC, structure) and are thus able to anticipate clients’ requirements and offer solutions.Based on my personal experience, I have been able to work on a wide variety of animal facility projects, from new buildings to revamping and refurbishing, with different types of animals, rodents and primates.Each project has its own specific features. The most important aspect is to listen to what the clients require ».