IACUC Roles and Responsibilities
A successful program is one where the IACUC and the Investigator have clearly-defined roles and responsibilities and work synergistically to ensure the ethical use of animals to support the highest quality research
IACUC RESPONSIBILITIES
- Review new animal use protocols and triennial review applications
- Review amendments and changes to approved studies
- Conduct post-approval monitoring of approved protocols
- Suspend approved animal use activities, if required
- Review concerns involving the care and use of animals
- Review the animal care and use program semiannually
- Inspect the housing facility and animal use areas semiannually
- Submit reports of the program review and facility inspections to the IO
- Make recommendations to the IO regarding the program
INVESTIGATOR RESPONSIBILITIES
- Abide by PHS Policy, USDA Regulations, AAALAC International standards and the provisions of the Guide for the care and use of animals
- Adhere to MGH policies for the care and use of animals
- Maintain a current, accurate IACUC protocol and ensure all staff conduct procedures in accordance with the approved protocols
- Ensure animal experiments described in linked awards are congruent with the protocol, as required by the terms and conditions of the award
- Ensure all staff are trained in the proper handling, experimental and restraint techniques required for the species used
- Obtain the correct research registrations and licensure (not clinical) for the use of any controlled substances
- Ensure all anesthesia, analgesia and other treatments needed to minimize pain and distress are provided to animals per the approved protocol
- Conduct work involving hazardous materials in approved locations using approved procedures
- Maintain an active, current chemical hygiene plan and train all staff on the chemical hygiene plan.
- Follow the directions of the facility veterinarian
- Report unanticipated pain and distress to the facility veterinarian
- Ensure the safe and ethical conduct of all research in animals
- Report all animal welfare concerns to the IACUC