Semiannual Inspections
Consistent with USDA Animal Welfare Regulations and PHS Policy, the K-State IACUC performs routine semiannual inspections of research and teaching animal facilities.
Semiannual IACUC visits are announced ahead of time. The inspections are scheduled for the first part of April and October annually. The K-State IACUC and URCO will do our best to accommodate PIs and facility manager schedules within this timeframe. URCO staff will contact PIs and lab representatives to schedule inspections within a month before the anticipated visit.
Information
Documents to prepare
| Documents to prepare | Why? |
|---|---|
IACUC approval letters | It needs to be clear that all work has a currently approved protocol. |
IACUC protocols | It needs to be clear that everyone working on the protocol has immediate access to the approved document and can therefore remain compliant. |
Proof of current OHSP status for all lab members or student workers – initial enrollment, then annual renewal | Occupational Health and Safety programs are required by the AWA, the Guide, and the Ag Guide. K-State uses an annual renewal system to ensure the Occupational Health and Safety Program status and activity of each individual. Enrollment is spot-checked during inspections. |
Training records - record of online training completion as well as lab-specific training | Training verification is K-State’s responsibility. One way IACUC ensures individuals have received training is to review written records of training. Records are spot-checked during inspections. |
Animal surgery records | In order to evaluate and confirm compliance with approved animal protocols for surgical procedures, supportive care, and pain relief, surgery records must be available for review by the IACUC. |
Animal monitoring records | It is the responsibility of the PI and the IACUC to ensure compliance with approved protocols. IACUC will check records for evidence of monitoring animals in accordance with all IACUC approved Animal Monitoring Plans. |
DEA controlled substance logs | It is the responsibility of the PI and K-State IACUC to ensure compliance with storage and use of DEA controlled substances. |
Signs to post
| Signs to post | Why? |
|---|---|
Everyone must be able to access a number for key individuals who will be able to provide instructions in the event of a disaster. | |
Anyone with an animal concern must be aware of how report their concern at any time, anonymously. | |
To promote individual awareness of the OHSP program and ensure all K-State individuals that have animal contact in an occupational way or in research are enrolled in the program. |
Common deficiencies
Examples of common deficiencies found during an IACUC Semi-Annual Inspection include the following.
Expired drugs and supplies
Improperly labeled drugs and supplies
Drugs and human food stored in same refrigerator or refrigerators not marked for intended use
Inadequate controlled drug storage
Controlled drug logs incomplete or outdated
Improperly stored or improperly labeled feed and bedding
Inadequate record keeping for personnel training
Inadequate records for employee training on specific animal procedures (such as surgery, handling, drug administration, etc.)
Inadequate animal care records (missing entries on daily care logs, post-op surgery logs incomplete or not updated)
Incomplete records for room or housing sanitation
Animal health records not closed out when health concerns are resolved
IACUC protocols not available or posted for projects currently underway
Clutter and inadequate housekeeping
Inspection checklists used on visits
The K-State IACUC will use this checklist generated by the NIH Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare during IACUC inspections and semiannual program reviews. This IACUC inspection checklist is based on the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, 8th ed.
