We understand that you need architectural and engineering support from someone who also comprehends the scientific aspects of your business. Charles River has registered, professional mechanical and electrical engineers who are supported by a technological and engineering-proficient team that is committed to supporting you in the design and engineering of your facility.
The Facility Engineering and Design group focuses on design and engineering services typically provided by architectural and engineering consulting firms, with added emphasis on laboratory services, vivariums, and vivarium support space design. In terms of these distinct facilities, we are uniquely positioned to provide services from conceptualization to realization in the areas of process flow documentation, program development, basis of design (BOD) development, technical services, and turnkey architectural and MEP engineering and construction documents.
Process Flow Documentation (Existing Operations)
Charles River can help document and streamline your existing operations, including but not limited to feed delivery, waste handling, animal transportation, vivarium cleaning, caging, and cleaning.

Program Development
- Space planning
- Conceptual floor plan development
- Throughput analysis
- Room and equipment data sheet development
- Equipment utility matrix development
- Preliminary central utility sizing
Basis of Design (BOD) Development
- Outline system and equipment specifications development
- Architectural and engineering system narrative development
- General arrangement (GA) space and equipment drawings
- Criteria for equipment, including reliability, redundancy, failure modes, and throughput
Technical Services
- Consultation in equipment selection
- Start-up, troubleshooting, and testing of vivarium equipment
- Formal commissioning of facilities and equipment to GLP/FDA Cx standards
- Computer maintenance management software (CMMS) consultation and implementation support
Turnkey Architectural & MEP Engineering & Construction Documents
- Schematic design development
- Product specifications
- Energy analysis
- Turnkey construction document development
- Factory mutual global insurance underwriter coordination
- Architectural detailed plans and specifications
- HVAC, electrical, sprinkler, and plumbing detailed design and engineering plans and specifications
To learn more about Charles River's facility engineering and design services, contact us at 1.877.CRIVER.1 or askcharlesriver@crl.com.