Many researchers are understandably reluctant to have people wandering through their laboratory. Not only is it an interruption of the ongoing work, but it can lead to errors made by distracted lab personnel, possible contamination of sterile areas, and in rare instances, there may be theft of supplies or intellectual property. But Dr. Anna Morales took her concerns to an extreme and always kept the laboratory door, cabinets and drawers locked, had all of her staff sign a confidentiality agreement, and made the IACUC contact her ahead of time when semi-annual inspections were due. This was not a problem for the IACUC because it routinely contacted investigators before performing its semiannual inspections.

Morales's protocol allowed her to bring mice up to her lab to perform a surgical procedure that required the use of the stereotaxic and recording equipment that was kept there. One of the staff working for Morales casually mentioned to an animal care technician that they were having some unexpected deaths of mice and the technician dutifully forwarded that information to the facility veterinarian. When the vet knocked on the door of Morales's lab she was told that she could not enter without Dr. Morales's permission and that Dr. Morales was gone for two more days. Not wanting to start an argument the veterinarian reported this to the IACUC, explaining that the attending veterinarian must have access to all animals.

When Morales returned there was a discussion between her, the veterinarian, and the IACUC chairman. Morales said that the veterinarian was not being denied access; rather, she was welcome to observe the surgery and the animals but unless there was a medical emergency she had to make an appointment to enter the lab. The veterinarian was adamant that she needed unfettered access to all animal care and use areas. The chairman didn't know what to say.

What is your opinion? Was Morales giving the veterinarian the access she said she needed or was the veterinarian right in demanding access whenever she believed it was needed?

Response to Protocol Review Scenario: Choose your battles

Response to Protocol Review Scenario: Defining “access”

Response to Protocol Review Scenario: The veterinarian and welfare take priority