Belgium – Autoclaves – Fourniture, installation et mise en service d'un autoclave pour l'animalerie SPF de l'ULiège, y compris la formation

The purchase of a new autoclave aims to replace the aging equipment of the SPF animal facility at the University of Liège, located in building B34. This highly secure structure, compliant with FELASA standards, houses more than 350 SPF animal lines, essential for the validity of biomedical research. The 2500-litre double-pass-through autoclave will effectively sterilise cages, bedding, food and materials (plastic or stainless steel) before they enter the controlled zone. The pass-through autoclave allows for the sterilisation of incoming materials and the decontamination of outgoing materials without breaking the sanitary barrier between the "dirty" side and the "clean" side, thus contributing to the maintenance of the animals' sanitary status. The autoclave must be compatible with the carts (made of durable stainless steel) used by the SPF animal facility, with dimensions of approximately 135 cm in height, 78 cm in width and 135 cm in length. The integration of the autoclave is part of a strict biosafety system governing access, personnel circulation and the introduction of animals. This project contributes to scientific rigour, the reproducibility of experimental data and the respect for the ethical principles of animal experimentation (3R). It also meets the increasing requirements of national and international collaborations, particularly in terms of sanitary traceability and prevention of zoonoses. Finally, it contributes to the improvement of research infrastructure by supporting training, transparency and scientific competitiveness.