O-097 Building the perfect cleanroom IVF lab and maintaining it

Abstract

Abstract Designing and installing a new ART laboratory is not something one does every day and the challenges one faces are many. Putting together a planning team with all concerned parties and stakeholders already in the very early phase of the project is crucial. The aim of the planning team is to critically consider all wishes and requirements, to weigh all the pros and cons and make realistic choices. The final scenario should comply with regulations and/or legislation. This implicated that IVF laboratory facilities should be constructed according to cleanroom regulations to control air-borne contaminants. The construction costs of laboratory space per square meter is about the same as the cost of an operating room. That's why it's so important to discuss space needs and layout well in advance in the planning team. To avoid future bottlenecks during operation, is might be wise to construct multifunctional facilities i.e. an room dedicated to embryo replacements can be designed without much extra cost in such a way that it is also suitable for performing egg retrieval if necessary. Once the cleanroom is build and the HVAC is working, compliance with the designated classification has to be demonstrated in the formal process of qualification (or validation). Provide enough space for cryostorage. This storage room should be a dedicated, locked room ideally not too far from the laboratory cleanroom and should be easily accessed for liquid nitrogen supply. As an alternative, a centralized liquid nitrogen distribution via a vacuum isolated pressured line (VIP) can be considered. One of the most important choices in terms of space requirements and layout is the type and number of workstations, equipment and incubators. Once the number and exact types are known, their exact position should be drawn on the plans in order to determine the necessary outlet points for medical gasses, electricity plugs and network connections.