It is within the IACUC’s purview to decide how to best meet the needs of the institution in terms of the method of delivery and frequency of training, and to adjust training requirements in response to extreme external factors provided the decisions are made in accordance with regulatory requirements. The Guide (pg. 15) states that personnel involved in animal use must be adequately trained and that the IACUC is responsible for providing oversight and evaluating the effectiveness of the training program1. The AWA also places the responsibility of personnel training on the IACUC and outlines several essential topics that must be included2.
In this scenario, Great Eastern University’s IACUC made the decision to adjust training expectations during extenuating circumstances. The assessment of risk led them to prioritize new personnel training and pause refresher training. Changing a program in response to unexpected circumstances is not ideal, but in reality programs must remain flexible to changes that may impact the animal care program. An immediate solution is necessary until a long-term solution is attainable. Holding a vote to adjust training expectations for a set time period shows proactivity on the part of the IACUC and avoids potentially allowing the training program to fall out of compliance with its OLAW Assurance if trainers are unable to meet demand. That being said, a training program that is disrupted due to the absence of one of the two trainers at any given time is likely unable to meet the needs of the institution consistently, and the IACUC should consider further long-term solutions to ensure the training program is fully supported. This could include involving veterinary staff or other qualified research staff as “back-up” trainers, hiring an additional position or moving some less critical training to a more accessible online format.
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