Policy on Training of Research Personnel

The ANIMAL WELFARE ACT (CFR 9) mandates that:

"Training and instruction of research personnel must include guidance in at least the following areas:

1. Humane methods of animal maintenance and experimentation

2. The concept, availability, and use of research or testing methods that limit the use of animals or minimize animal distress.

3. Proper use of anesthetics, analgesics, and tranquilizers.

4. Methods whereby deficiencies in animal care are treatment are reported"

In addition the ILAR Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals mandates that:

" AWRs and PHS policy require institutions to ensure that people caring for or using animals are qualified to do so. Personnel caring for animals should be appropriately trained and the institution should provide for formal or on-the-job training to facilitate effective implementation of the program and human care and use of animals. Investigators, technical personnel, trainees, and visiting investigators who perform anesthesia, surgery, or other experimental manipulations must be qualified through training or experience to accomplish these tasks in a humane and scientifically acceptable manner."

In keeping with these regulations, the Attending Veterinarian will review with the PI at the time of initial consultation/protocol pre-review the experience and qualifications of all individuals identified on the proposed protocol with respect to the specific biomethodology and species identified in the proposed protocol. The IACUC will as well review the personnel qualifications/experience at the time of protocol review. If individuals are identified on the protocol that do not have experience/training with the species and biomethodology identified on the protocol; the protocol must detail how and by whom training will be accomplished. Training can be conducted by experienced persons listed on the protocol, the attending veterinarian, other faculty, or outside experts as is indicated. Safety training is required for all protocols and is administered by the Safety office in the CNS&M. Specific species or methodology training can be provided by the Research Facilities Coordinator if necessary.

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