Compliancy and Regulations

The function, operation, and services of the AR unit are subject to the following compliance and regulatory considerations:

Federal laws: Animal Welfare Act (AWA) and Regulations (Public Law 99-198 - The Improved Standards for Laboratory Animal Act)

These laws require certain standards of humane care and use of animals in research. Our facilities are subject to periodic inspection by US Department of Agriculture (USDA) veterinarians and an annual report is required of the CVM.

Public Health Service (PHS) Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals

As a recipient of PHS funds, UGA is obligated to adhere to these policy guidelines. A letter of compliance is filed annually with the Office for Protection from Research Risks (OPRR).

National Academy of Science Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.

This publication provides guidelines for Animal Care and Use programs. The Guide specifically addresses:

• Institutional Policies and Responsibilities
• Animal Environment, Housing, and Management
• Veterinary Medical Care
• Physical Plant

The UGA Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)

The Office of the Vice President for Research supports the IACUC. The AWA and the Guide dictate the activities and composition of the IACUC. Its function is to evaluate UGA animal facilities in regard to the care, use and treatment of all UGA-owned animals. The five functions of the IACUC as described by the Guide are:

• inspection of facilities
• evaluation of programs and animal-activity areas
• submission of reports to responsible institutional officials
• review of proposed uses of animals in research, testing, or education (protocols, i.e., Animal Use Proposals — AUPs)
• establishment of a mechanism for receipt and review of concerns involving the care and use of animals at the institution

Association for the Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC) International

AAALAC is a nonprofit corporation formed by national and international health, educational, and research organizations to help maintain and advance standards of laboratory animal care. The purpose of this organization is the voluntary accreditation of Animal Care and Use programs. The primary standard used for evaluating animal care is the Guide to the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (see above). AAALAC accreditation is considered the "gold standard" for Animal Care and Use Programs.

The AR-CVM facilities and programs are fully accredited by AAALAC.