Summary

Most federal research laboratories are experiencing common problems associated with aging facilities--leaking roofs and gutters, drafty window frames, power outages, and poor ventilating systems that do not meet industry standards for air circulation. Most of the laboratories GAO visited are more than 30 years old. Although facility managers generally believe that funding for laboratory maintenance is adequate, the eight agencies GAO reviewed reported backlogs of more than $3.8 billion in needed laboratory repairs. Moreover, funding to renovate existing laboratories or build new ones is often minimal. Four of the eight agencies recently started up task forces to reexamine their research and development missions and improve the effectiveness and efficiency of their laboratories. Their findings should help in deciding whether to realign, consolidate, or close laboratories and whether to boost funding for laboratories doing essential work.