What are cost centers typically associated with in an animal facility?

In an animal facility, cost centers are areas where costs are incurred and tracked for accountability and budgeting purposes. These centers typically encompass functions that contribute to the overall operation and maintenance of the facility rather than direct laboratory research activities or specific purchases.

Cage washing and laboratory services represent essential operational functions that maintain the health and well-being of laboratory animals. Proper care and sanitation of animal housing and equipment are vital to ensure that animals remain healthy and research results are valid. The costs associated with these services are categorized as cost centers because they incur ongoing expenses necessary to uphold the standards of animal care and facility operation. This includes expenses related to labor, cleaning supplies, equipment maintenance, and utilities required for these services.

On the other hand, laboratory research expenses, reagent purchases, and staff training and development may not typically fall under the direct operational cost center categorization as they relate more to specific research projects, consumables, or human resource development rather than the upkeep and function of the facility itself. Thus, cage washing and laboratory services accurately define a major area of cost associated with the day-to-day operations of an animal facility.