AAALAC Inspections / IACUC Prereviews

1. Fall 2008 – RSO training AAALAC Inspections / IACUC Prereviews

2. AAALAC Inspections • Outside AAALAC inspections required for certification of animal research program • Inspections have identified ongoing problems, primarily in the oversight of occupational health for animal care workers, and sometimes researchers also. • In response, the Office of Occupational Health and Safety (Academic Health Center) asked staff from DEHS, Regulatory Affairs, and an outside consultant to inspect all laboratories that work with research animals.

3. Implications • Animal researchers in your department are likely to see more inspectors • Regulatory Affairs – animal handling compliance / ROHP • DEHS-biosafety – if also using BSL2 organisms • DEHS-radiation – if using radioactive materials • Regulatory Affairs – controlled substances • Departmental RSO – annual audit • Inspections may overlap - Anticipate frustration!

4. Common audit findings • Improper chemical storage • Shower/eyewash not tested frequently enough • Refresher training not current and/or documented • Chemicals not properly labeled • Sharps not properly disposed • Centrifuges not properly managed

5. IACUC Prereviews • Also in response to AAALAC-identified deficiencies, the IACUC must develop stronger oversight of protocols • DEHS staff used to review only those involving hazardous materials • DEHS staff now review all proposals sent in to IACUC • Proposals checked to ensure: • PI covered by current Lab Safety Plan • Training is current for PI and named staff • SOP identifies all hazards and mitigation measures

6. Protocol hold-ups • Compliance questions will delay approval of proposal before IACUC • Make sure you list all PIs and their laboratories in your Lab Safety Plan (Table in Chapter 1) • Conduct regular laboratory audits to catch issues before outside inspectors • Train researchers regarding audit findings and the importance of compliance • Ensure training is recorded – preferably in PeopleSoft