Government and accrediting agencies have mandated the establishment of an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) with slightly different functional and membership requirements. The committee has two primary functions, including protocol review and observation of facilities and procedures. The committee's mission is to reduce, replace, or refine animal use without interfering with research. Procedures for establishment of the committee and methods of review are presented. The veterinarian assumes a quality assurance role that includes disease prevention, consultation, establishment of standards, and training. Scientists, veterinarians, and committee members cooperatively can reduce unnecessary animal use, pain, and distress.
References
1.
Knauff, D.R. (1986). Similarities in regulatory provisions. Lab. Animal15, 18–19.
2.
PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE. (September 1986). Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.
3.
US. CONGRESS OFFICE OF TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT. (February 1986). Alternatives to animal use in research, testing and education. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, OTA-BA-273.
4.
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH. (1985). Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. Publication No. 85-23. Prepared by Committee on Care and Use of Laboratory Animals of the Institute of Laboratory Animals Resources, Commission on Life Sciences, National Research Council.
