Why does the IACUC inspect laboratories where animals are used?
The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee is mandated by federal law (PHS Policy and USDA Animal Welfare Act) to review the Institution's animal research program and its facilities (including individual laboratories where animals are taken) twice yearly. In performing this evaluation on a regular basis, the IACUC ensures that the well-being of the animals is being met and we are in compliance with Federal Regulations and Guidelines.
Institutions are responsible for oversight of all animal-related activities regardless of how long or where the activity occurs. Satellite facilities (defined by PHS Policy as a containment outside a core or centrally managed area in which animals are housed for more than 24 hours) and areas where any form of surgical manipulations (minor, major, survival, non-survival) are performed must be inspected at least once every six months by the IACUC as part of the semiannual evaluation.
PHS Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals
The IACUC must have access to all investigators' laboratories for the purpose of verifying that activities involving animals are conducted in accordance with the proposal approved by that committee.
What if more than one faculty member does work in a particular laboratory?
A single point of contact is required for IACUC laboratory inspections. Either a single faculty member is chosen to represent the laboratory and be responsible for compliance issues or the department chair may be asked to designate the contact person.
When are IACUC inspections?
IACUC inspections are generally performed in the Spring & Fall.
Which areas are inspected?
All university animal housing & procedure areas (RAR facilities, surgical facilities, laboratories and procedure rooms where animals are taken.). Also, all animal supply storage areas, feed rooms, cage washes, transportation vehicles, satellite facilities, etc.
What will the IACUC look for during inspections?
The IACUC will look for specific regulatory requirements, including but not limited to:
• Appropriate drug storage, control, and expiration date monitoring
• Expired drugs & supplies are separated, marked, and/or disposed of properly
• Current (up to date) calibration of anesthesia machines
• Drug/controlled substances log maintained
• No human food and/or drink in any animal room
• Separate surgery areas for preparation, procedure, and recovery for USDA regulated species
• Aseptic technique used in all survival surgeries
• Anesthesia and surgical records
• Staff knowledgeable of protocol
• General cleanliness of lab areas
What does the IACUC consider to be a deficiency?
The IACUC may cite any deficiency they observe. Deficiencies fall into two categories, “minor” and “significant.” A significant deficiency is defined as a deficiency that is, or may be, a threat to the health or safety of animals or people.
What happens after the inspection?
The IACUC will send the PI a copy of the inspection report. The PI is required to respond in writing that the deficiencies were corrected or will be corrected within a specified time frame The IACUC is required to submit a semi-annual report outlining all deficiencies to the Institutional Official. PI failure to respond with corrective actions will be communicated to the appropriate department head and may result in suspension of approval to use animals. The IACUC may perform follow-up inspections to ensure corrective action was taken. |
