I. SCOPE

This procedure is to be followed in performing investigations into complaints concerning the care and use of laboratory animals as required by USDA-APHIS, Animal Welfare Act, 9 CFR, Subchapter A, Parts 1, 2, and 3.

II. GENERAL

A. All employees have the right to report suspected problems concerning the care and use of laboratory animals.

B. The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) reviews and if warranted, investigates animal care problems and/or welfare complaints.

C. Animal use and care are regulated by standards established by the USDA-APHIS, Animal Welfare Act.

D. No employee shall be discriminated against or be subject to any reprisal for reporting violations or suspected violations of the Animal Welfare Act.

III. PROCEDURE

A. Any employee knowing or suspecting that a violation of the Animal Welfare Act is taking place, should submit a memo to any NYUSoM IACUC member. The IACUC member submits the memo to the IACUC Chairperson, and a copy is distributed to the Site Attending Veterinarian.

B. This site subcommittee performs a preliminary investigation and reports its findings to the IACUC.

C. The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee:

1. Prepares and files a report indicating the nature of the problem and/or complaint. Copy of this report is submitted to the Institutional Official.

2. If warranted, initiates or continues the investigation.

3. Completes the report by indicating the results of their review, and if warranted, the action to be taken to correct the problem