Building Access Security

For animal health, research integrity and safety, access to animal facilities are restricted. Access privileges vary depending upon the purpose, whether on-going or ad hoc. Click a category below for details.

  • Research Personnel/Investigators

    There are several steps for accessing animal areas to ensure your safety, animal care and research integrity, including IACUC protocol application and approval. 

    Each orientation includes a tour and introduction to the security system, procedures for animal movement, and managing hazards. Access to each additional facility requires orientation for that specific facility. CAR management authorizes MSU Police to issue security privileges after orientation is complete.

    1. Valid MSU Spartan ID
      • Required for facility orientation and for swipe entry thereafter. Your card cannot be shared (see policy).

    2. Forms and approvals
    3. Pre-Requisite Training
      Check your training transcripts and complete any missing or outdated training:
    4. Orientation
  • Service/Maintenance Personnel

    Service and maintenance personnel may be approved to enter and move around the facility as necessary using their MSU ID card.

    Security Access Procedure


    Prior to starting work

    Cleaning, maintenance, and repair service work can introduce noise, vibrations, dust, changes to lighting, disruptions of eating and sleep schedules for our animals. Work must be coordinated with the Facility Manager to ensure minimal risk to research and personnel.

    See also:

  • Contractors and Vendors

    Vendors and Contractors - approved as needed for construction projects, utilities work, and equipment repairs.

    • Visits are coordinated with CAR facility manager through IPF or ITS.
    • Bring identification and other required documentation.
  • Government Officials

    Government officials needing access for inspections, or audits as required by law are welcome to visit CAR-managed facilities.

    • Must have valid agency identification
    • Contact the facility supervisor or call 517-353-4151
  • Emergency Responders

    Access for responding to police, fire, or medical emergencies:

    • First responders will be given ad hoc access. They do not need pre-screening.
    • CAR will assist where possible.
  • CAR Personnel & IACUC members

    As MSU employees charged with overseeing animal activities, CAR personnel & IACUC members obtain access using their ID card as needed upon completion of standard requirements (training, orientation).

  • Visitor Entry/Escort

    Visitors require pre-approval and coordination with investigators and a CAR escort.

    • Campus Animal Resources (CAR) must approve all visitors, including tours.
    • Visitors must be approved in advance.
    • Tour participants are not allowed in animal rooms without PI notification and approval.
    • Primary Investigators must coordinate with the animal Facility Manager - CARinfo@msu.edu
    • Visitors are escorted by CAR personnel at all times.
    • Visitors are observers only.
    • No cameras or video recording equipment is allowed.
    • Visitors with animal allergies must get clearance from MSU Occupational Health for evaluation for respirator.
    • Visitors must not handle animals.
      • Refer to IACUC policies and update animal protocol for new animal handlers.
    • Submit the Visitor Request Form (PDF)

Housing Facilities