Importance of IACUC Inspection of New Animal Rooms and Procedure Rooms
Before initiating any animal-related activities, ensure all animal research facilities and procedure areas undergo inspection and approval by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) in accordance with federal regulations (Animal Welfare Act, PHS Policy). This requirement covers new, renovated, or repurposed spaces, as well as laboratory procedure rooms.
Conduct initial inspections to confirm that new or modified spaces meet all standards for animal housing, environmental controls, sanitation, biosecurity, and occupational safety. This crucial step protects animal welfare and the integrity of your research. During these inspections, the IACUC will assess lighting, temperature and humidity, ventilation, pest control, containment, sanitation, equipment functionality, and staff training.
Facilitate semiannual facility inspections, as mandated by USDA and PHS policies, to maintain compliance and drive continuous improvement in animal care and use across all animal housing and use areas, including satellite facilities and procedure rooms.
All animal housing and procedure rooms – including those located within laboratories – must be inspected by the IACUC at least once every six months. If a space has not been inspected within the past six months, it must be inspected and approved by the IACUC prior to the start of any animal work. This requirement ensures that all animal-related activities occur only in spaces that are verified to meet current standards of care and compliance.
Remember: No animal work can begin until the IACUC has reviewed and formally approved the space through either the initial or semiannual inspection process. Proactively involve the IACUC during the planning of research spaces to avoid delays and ensure compliant research operations.