Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare
News Archive: 2010

News Archive Table Of Contents
Date News Flash Description
December 14, 2010 Annual Reports are due to OLAW by January 31, 2011
December 13, 2010 Reference Handbook on Clinical Signs in Rodents and Rabbits Available
December 7, 2010 Best Practices for Regulatory Safety Testing Workshops: January 2011, Bethesda, MD
November 17, 2010 SCAW Winter Conference: December 6-7, San Antonio, TX
November 10, 2010 ILAR Journal Volume 51(4): Birds as Animal Models in the Behavioral and Neural Sciences
November 5, 2010 Updated Guidance in Lab Animal Protocol Review Column: November Issue
November 4, 2010 ILAR Journal Volume 51(3): One Health: The Intersection of Humans, Animals, and the Environment
October 21, 2010 IACUC Administrator’s Best Practices Meeting: November 2010, State College, PA
October 7, 2010 SCAW IACUC Training Workshop: October 21, Chicago, IL
October 5, 2010 OLAW Vacancy Announcement – Veterinary Medical Officer
September 29, 2010 ASLAP 2010 Continuing Education Program: October 9, Atlanta, GA
September 23, 2010 Updated Guidance in Lab Animal Protocol Review Column: October Issue
September 22, 2010 Innovative Environmental Enrichment Symposium: October 10, Atlanta, GA
September 20, 2010 “Discussion of OLAW FAQs” Seminar Available for Viewing
September 13, 2010 SCAW IACUC Training Workshop: September 27, New York, NY
September 8, 2010 Clarification on the Roles of NIH Scientific Review Groups (SRG) and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUC) in Review of Vertebrate Animal Research
September 1, 2010 Early Registration Extended for the Animal Welfare and Scientific Research: 1985 to 2010 Symposium
August 25, 2010 International Workshop on Alternative Methods to Reduce, Refine, and Replace the Use of Animals in Vaccine Potency and Safety Testing: State of the Science and Future Directions
August 24, 2010 SCAW IACUC Training Workshop: September 10, Bethesda, MD
August 16, 2010 Updated Guidance in OLAW Commentary and Articles
August 10, 2010 New Nonhuman Primate Enrichment and Social Housing Resources
July 29, 2010 Animal Welfare and Scientific Research: 1985 to 2010 Symposium plus IACUC 101 & AWIC Workshops
July 23, 2010 Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL): 5th Edition
July 20, 2010 IACUC 101/201 PLUS Workshops: August 18-19, San Francisco, CA
July 16, 2010 Update on Applicability of the Shelf Life Extension Program (SLEP)
July 7, 2010 Scientific and Humane Issues in the Use of Random Source Dogs and Cats in Research
July 6, 2010 “Ethics and IACUC Responsibility” Seminar Available for Viewing
June 16, 2010 Guidance Regarding Update of the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals
June 15, 2010 Updated Guidance in Lab Animal Protocol Review Column: June Issue
June 2, 2010 Update of the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals
May 27, 2010 OLAW Online Seminar Series: June 10, 2010
May 4, 2010 ILAR Journal Volume 51(2): Disaster Planning and Management
April 21, 2010 Instructions for Completion and Technical Evaluation of the Vertebrate Animal Section (VAS) in NIH Contract Proposals
April 20, 2010 Update of Sample Animal Welfare Assurance for Foreign Institutions
April 19, 2010 Guidance on Confirming Appropriate Charges to NIH Awards during Periods of Noncompliance for Activities Involving Animals
April 8, 2010 USDA AWIC Workshop: May 5-6, Beltsville, MD
March 19, 2010 Instructions for Completion and Peer Review of the Vertebrate Animal Section (VAS) in NIH Grant Applications and Cooperative Agreements
March 18, 2010 New FAQs Posted on OLAW Website
March 16, 2010 "Physical Plant Issues" Seminar Available for Viewing
February 26, 2010 New FAQ on Laparoscopic Procedures Posted
February 24, 2010 OLAW Online Seminar Series: March 11, 2010
February 3, 2010 IACUC 101 Workshop and PRIM&R 2010 IACUC Conference: March 21-23, 2010 in Baltimore, MD
January 29, 2010 2010 IACUC Regional Education Conference: March 4, Seattle, WA
January 25, 2010 ILAR Journal Volume 51(1): Regenerative Medicine: From Mice to Men
January 22, 2010 Guide for the Care and Use of Agricultural Animals in Research and Teaching: Third Edition, January 2010
January 15, 2010 PRIM&R Webinar - Top Tips for IACUCs: Perspectives in Animal Care
January 8, 2010 IACUC 101/201 PLUS Workshops: February 24-25, Lafayette, LA


News Flash Items
Annual Reports are due to OLAW by January 31, 2011

Posted: December 14, 2010

Annual Reports for the period January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2010 will be due to OLAW no later than January 31, 2011. In accordance with the Public Health Service (PHS) Policy on the Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Policy), Part IV.F., and each Institution’s Animal Welfare Assurance, each institution is required to submit a written report to OLAW at least once every 12 months. Reporting periods coincide with the calendar year, unless a request was made in writing to OLAW for an alternate reporting schedule.

Information to be reported consists of any change in the institution’s program of animal care and use, a change in the Institutional Official or IACUC membership, the dates that the IACUC conducted its semiannual evaluations of the program and facilities, and any minority view by an IACUC member. Only three attachments are required to accompany the annual report:

  1. Roster of the IACUC members, only if there has been a change to the membership
  2. Summary of any program changes
  3. Any minority view by an IACUC member

If there have been no other changes to the animal program, then no other program elements are needed for the Annual Report. Please do not send semi-annual reports with the Annual Report unless they include a minority view (see OLAW FAQ C6 under Institutional Reporting to OLAW).

A sample Annual Report document can be found at the Annual Report to OLAW webpage. For additional information, view the OLAW Online Seminar - "The OLAW Annual Report: What You Need to Know" (Flash - 53 mins). If you have any questions regarding your report, please contact OLAW at 301-496-7163.

OLAW requests that the Annual Report be faxed to 301-915-9478
or 301-915-9483 for more efficient processing. If you choose to submit your report by e-mail, please convert your signed Annual Report to PDF and e-mail to olawarp@mail.nih.gov.

Documents submitted to OLAW are subject to release under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). For guidance on FOIA, see OLAW FAQ C4 under Institutional Reporting to OLAW.



Reference Handbook on Clinical Signs in Rodents and Rabbits Available

Posted: December 13, 2010

Charles River Laboratories, Inc. has published a reference handbook containing practical information to help laboratory animal professionals such as animal care staff, research personnel and veterinarians be able to clearly describe both abnormal and normal clinical conditions for laboratory rodents and rabbits. The Handbook of Clinical Signs in Rodents and Rabbits discusses how to make and describe observations using clinically applicable terminology and measures. It contains descriptions and images of normal and abnormal clinical findings. Versions in Spanish, French and Chinese will be available in 2011.

To obtain a complimentary copy, contact the Charles River Customer Support Center at askcharlesriver@crl.com or 1.877.274.8371 and include contact information and a mailing address. Multiple copies will be provided to institutions upon request.



Best Practices for Regulatory Safety Testing Workshops: January 2011, Bethesda, MD

Posted: December 7, 2010

The National Toxicology Program Interagency Center for the Evaluation of Alternative Toxicological Methods (NICEATM) and the Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Validation of Alternative Methods (ICCVAM) will convene a series of workshops on "Best Practices for Regulatory Safety Testing." The first two workshops in this series will be held January 19 and 20, 2011 at NIH in Bethesda, MD.

Assessing the Potential for Chemically Induced Eye Injuries - January 19, 2011. This one-day workshop will help participants gain a practical understanding of the theory and application of available in vitro and in vivo alternative test methods that can be used to evaluate the eye injury hazard potential of chemicals and products while avoiding or minimizing animal use and animal pain and distress. Participants will learn the strengths and weaknesses of available alternative test methods, become familiar with the types of data they provide, and learn how to use these data in regulatory safety assessments. Workshop topics will be of particular interest to those involved in conducting safety tests for chemically induced eye injuries, those responsible for reviewing and approving study protocols prior to testing, and regulators who are expected to review data generated by the tests.

Assessing the Potential for Chemically Induced Allergic Contact Dermatitis - January 20, 2011. This one-day workshop will help participants gain a practical understanding of the theory and application of available alternative test methods that can be used to evaluate the allergic contact dermatitis hazard potential of chemicals and products while minimizing animal use and avoiding or minimizing animal pain and distress. Participants will learn the strengths and weaknesses of available alternative test methods, become familiar with the types of data they provide, and learn how to use these data in regulatory safety assessments. Workshop topics will be of particular interest to those involved in conducting safety tests for chemically induced allergic contact dermatitis, those responsible for reviewing and approving study protocols prior to testing, and regulators who are expected to review data generated by the tests.

For more information, visit http://iccvam.niehs.nih.gov/meetings/Implement-2011/ImplmtnWksp.htm



SCAW Winter Conference: December 6-7, San Antonio, TX

Posted: November 17, 2010

The Scientists Center for Animal Welfare (SCAW) will present the Winter Conference – “The Evolution of Your IACUC: Promoting Science and Compliance” – on December 6 and 7, 2010 in San Antonio, Texas. The two day conference is for IACUC members and administrators, principal investigators, attending veterinarians, regulatory personnel, and laboratory animal care staff. The program will include topics that explore advances in research animal welfare.

SCAW will host the program with support from The University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio, the NIH Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW), and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Animal Care. For program, registration and accommodation information, visit http://www.scaw.com/conference.htmLink to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer



ILAR Journal Volume 51(4): Birds as Animal Models in the Behavioral and Neural Sciences

Posted: November 10, 2010

Birds as Animal Models in the Behavioral and Neural Sciences Link to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer
Scientific Editor: Marc F. Schmidt

The articles in this issue highlight some of the exciting work being performed in birds to tackle many fundamental questions in the behavioral and neural sciences. Laboratory research in birds has already made key contributions to knowledge of brain function, and with the new avian brain nomenclature and increasing molecular evidence of similarities between avian and mammalian brains, cross talk will become easier and the impact of avian research even greater. The examples described in these articles illustrate the diversity of interesting questions and approaches in avian research as well as its potential benefits through translation to discoveries that will enhance understanding and treatment of human disease. From the perspective of laboratory animal research, the authors also emphasize the variety of experimental approaches and species being used and call for enhanced attention to husbandry and other animal care issues to help support this growing and cutting-edge area of animal research.



Updated Guidance in Lab Animal Protocol Review Column: November Issue

Posted: November 5, 2010

Visit the Guidance section on the OLAW website for updated Commentary on Lab Animal Protocol Review columns. “A word from OLAW” responds to the topic “Refusal to renew an expiring protocol” in the November 2010 issue.

Click to download the column: Lab Animal 2010; 39(11). (PDF - 178 KB)

To further explore this and other topics, browse the OLAW Topic Index. For additional information, visit OLAW.



ILAR Journal Volume 51(3): One Health: The Intersection of Humans, Animals, and the Environment

Posted: November 4, 2010

One Health: The Intersection of Humans, Animals, and the Environment Link to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer
Scientific Editor: James G. Fox

"'One Health' promotes the integration of human, animal, and environmental health, and thus enhances understanding of disease processes, through communication and collaboration among physicians, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, environmental and public health experts, osteopaths, dentists, nurses, biomedical engineers, physicists, biochemists, plant pathologists, and others. Using One Health principles, scientists and health professionals of the 21st century have the opportunity to reshape and advance the future of health care for humans and animals worldwide. The articles in this issue illustrate a variety of practical and effective applications of the One Health approach, from research on the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic to the treatment of different types of cancer to recognition and management of zoonotic diseases that affect laboratory animals, pets, and livestock, among others."
— Thomas P. Monath, Laura H. Kahn, and Bruce Kaplan



IACUC Administrator’s Best Practices Meeting: November 2010, State College, PA

Posted: October 21, 2010

The Pennsylvania State University is presenting the “5th Annual IACUC Administrator’s Best Practices Meeting.” Two sessions will be held on November 9-10 and 11-12, 2010 in State College, Pennsylvania. This is a meeting for IACUC staff and animal program operations personnel to present and share best practices in the humane care and use of laboratory animals. A few openings remain for Session 1 (Nov. 9-10). Registration for Session 2 (Nov. 11-12) is full. Program information can be found at IACUC Administrator’s Best Practices Meeting (PDF).



SCAW IACUC Training Workshop: October 21, Chicago, IL

Posted: October 7, 2010

A SCAW IACUC Training Workshop will be held on October 21, 2010 in Chicago, IL. The Scientists Center for Animal Welfare (SCAW) developed this one day educational workshop for experienced Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) members and administrators, principal investigators, attending veterinarians, regulatory personnel and laboratory animal care staff. The program will focus on changes in the new Guide and how they will affect IACUCs and others.

SCAW will host the program with support from The University of Chicago, Abbott Laboratories, NIH OLAW and USDA APHIS Animal Care. For program, registration and accommodation information, visit http://www.scaw.com/iacuc-advanced.htm.  Link to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer



OLAW Vacancy Announcement – Veterinary Medical Officer

Posted: October 5, 2010

The National Institutes of Health seeks applications from candidates for the position of Veterinary Medical Officer, Division of Compliance Oversight, Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW), located in the Office of Extramural Research (OER). The focus of this position is to facilitate compliance with laboratory animal welfare requirements of the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (PHS Policy) and to provide expert consultation on laboratory animal welfare in the negotiation of Animal Welfare Assurances with research institutions. This position is located in Bethesda, MD.

The Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW) provides guidance and interpretation of the PHS Policy, supports educational programs, and monitors compliance with the Policy by assured institutions and PHS funding components to ensure the humane care and use of animals in PHS-supported research, testing, and training, thereby contributing to the quality of PHS-supported activities.

For information concerning the duties and responsibilities of this position, salary and benefits available, required qualifications, and mandatory application procedures, interested candidates should visit the Jobs @ NIH website at: http://www.jobs.nih.gov/ and search on job announcement number HHS/NIH-2010-2743. Questions about the announcement should be directed to Shirley Prophet (prophetsh@od.nih.gov), and should reference the announcement number. DHHS and NIH are Equal Opportunity Employers.



ASLAP 2010 Continuing Education Program: October 9, Atlanta, GA

Posted: September 29, 2010

The American Society for Laboratory Animal Practitioners (ASLAP) is presenting the 2010 Continuing Education Program – “Practical Laboratory Animal Therapeutics” – on October 9 in Atlanta, Georgia. This one day seminar for veterinarians, IACUC members, scientists, veterinary technicians, and animal care professionals will feature experts in the field plus two interactive afternoon sessions. Program information can be found at http://www.aslap.org/Link to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer



Updated Guidance in Lab Animal Protocol Review Column: October Issue

Posted: September 23, 2010

Visit the Guidance section on the OLAW website for updated Commentary on Lab Animal Protocol Review columns. “A word from OLAW and USDA” responds to the topic “Is electronic approval appropriate?” in the October 2010 issue. 

Click to download the column: Lab Animal 2010; 39(10) (PDF - 189 KB)

To further explore this and other topics, browse the OLAW Topic Index. For additional information, visit OLAW.



Innovative Environmental Enrichment Symposium: October 10, Atlanta, GA

Posted: September 22, 2010

The Massachusetts General Hospital, Center for Comparative Medicine will host an annual Innovative Environmental Enrichment Symposium on Sunday, October 10, 2010 in Atlanta, GA at the Omni Hotel at the CNN Center. The objective of this symposium is to provide a forum at which participants can compare notes on innovative animal enrichment and conditioning programs and how to best determine the effectiveness of those versus current practices. The event is formulated for individuals in the field of animal behavior, enrichment and welfare. Intended for those that have passions for providing quality laboratory standards that exceed regulations and meet animal welfare needs. For more information see http://www.virtualvivarium.com/about-us/upcoming-events/environmental_enrichment_symposium.aspLink to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer



“Discussion of OLAW FAQs” Seminar Available for Viewing

Posted: September 20, 2010

A recording of the OLAW IACUC Staff Online Seminar, “Discussion of OLAW FAQs”, held September 9, 2010 has been posted on the OLAW website. The seminar recording can be found on the Education Resources page.



SCAW IACUC Training Workshop: September 27, New York, NY

Posted: September 13, 2010

A SCAW IACUC Training Workshop will be held on September 27, 2010 in New York, NY. The Scientists Center for Animal Welfare (SCAW) developed this one day educational workshop for experienced Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) members and administrators, principal investigators, attending veterinarians, regulatory personnel and laboratory animal care staff. The program focuses on topics such as advanced protocol review and provides opportunities for small discussion groups and sharing of information among participants.

SCAW will host the program with support from Rockefeller University, Weill Cornell Medical College, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, The City University of New York, NIH OLAW and USDA APHIS Animal Care. For program, registration and accommodation information, visit http://www.scaw.com/iacuc-advanced.htm.Link to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer

RACE Credits: It is expected that this course will be approved for hours of continuing education credit in jurisdictions which recognize AAVSB RACE approval; however participants should be aware that some boards have limitations on the number of hours accepted in certain categories and/or restrictions on certain methods of delivery of continuing education. Call the SCAW office at 301.345.3500 for further information. 



Clarification on the Roles of NIH Scientific Review Groups (SRG) and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUC) in Review of Vertebrate Animal Research

Posted: September 8, 2010

Guidance on Clarification on the Roles of NIH Scientific Review Groups (SRG) and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUC) in Review of Vertebrate Animal Research has been published in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts on September 1, 2010, NOT-OD-10-128. This Notice provides additional clarification in reference to Notice NOT-OD-10-027 in how the Vertebrate Animal Section (VAS) of applications for grants and cooperative agreements is evaluated as part of the NIH peer review process and is considered as part of the overall scoring. Further clarification is provided on the oversight role of the IACUC and review responsibility of NIH SRGs.

For questions, suggestions or comments, email to olaw@od.nih.gov.



Early Registration Extended for the Animal Welfare and Scientific Research: 1985 to 2010 Symposium

Posted: September 1, 2010

Register now and save! Discounted registration extended to September 15.
You can reserve a space now at the discounted rate with payment due by October 8.

Animal Welfare and Scientific Research: 1985 to 2010 Symposium
October 25-26, 2010
Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Convention Center, Bethesda, MD

Recognizing 25 Years of Improving Animal Welfare and Advancing Science

Day 1 will focus on Animal Welfare and advances in:

  • Animal Housing Facilities
  • IACUCs
  • Education and Training
  • Veterinary Care

Evening session – features a Keynote Address by Dr. Charles McCarthy who was instrumental in the development of federal regulations for the protection of human and animal research subjects.

Day 2 will focus on the contributions of Scientific Research to human and animal health. Select topics:

  • Advances in Global Infectious Disease Research
  • Development of Medicines and Devices for Humans and Animals
  • Genetic Vulnerabilities Associated with Cancer and Aging
  • Understanding Depression, Schizophrenia, and Autism

For more about the program, click here (PDF).

Pre Conference Events | October 24, 2010

  • IACUC 101 Workshop
  • Meeting the Information Requirements of the Animal Welfare Act: AWIC Workshop

Symposium Web site: http://www.awsrsymposium.com.



International Workshop on Alternative Methods to Reduce, Refine, and Replace the Use of Animals in Vaccine Potency and Safety Testing: State of the Science and Future Directions

Posted: August 25, 2010

The Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Validation of Alternative Methods (ICCVAM) and the National Toxicology Program Interagency Center for the Evaluation of Alternative Toxicological Methods (NICEATM) are convening an International Workshop on Alternative Methods to Reduce, Refine, and Replace the Use of Animals in Vaccine Potency and Safety Testing: State of the Science and Future Directions. The workshop will be held September 14-16, 2010 at the National Institutes of Health, William H. Natcher Conference Center in Bethesda, Maryland.

For additional information, visit http://iccvam.niehs.nih.gov/meetings/BiologicsWksp-2010/BiologicsWksp.htm.



SCAW IACUC Training Workshop: September 10, Bethesda, MD

Posted: August 24, 2010

A SCAW IACUC Training Workshop will be held on September 10, 2010 in Bethesda, MD. The Scientists Center for Animal Welfare (SCAW) developed this one day educational workshop for experienced Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) members and administrators, principal investigators, attending veterinarians, regulatory personnel and laboratory animal care staff. The program will focus on changes in the new Guide and how they will affect IACUCs and others.

SCAW will host the program with support from NIH OLAW and USDA APHIS Animal Care. For program, registration and accommodation information, visit http://www.scaw.com/iacuc-advanced.htmLink to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer



Updated Guidance in OLAW Commentary and Articles

Posted: August 16, 2010

Visit the Guidance section on the OLAW website for updated Commentary and Articles. In the August 2010 issue of Lab Animal, “A word from OLAW and USDA” responds to the Protocol Review column “Noncompliance in survival surgery technique” (PDF). New guidance on other topics can be found in Articles by OLAW Staff.

To further explore these and other topics, browse the OLAW Topic Index. For additional information, visit OLAW.



New Nonhuman Primate Enrichment and Social Housing Resources

Posted: August 10, 2010

OLAW has a new online resource for information on nonhuman primate enrichment and social housing. This resource is provided to assist institutions in enhancing the care and well-being of nonhuman primates. On this site, you can find new FAQs, a special online seminar, the OLAW report on site visits to Chimpanzee facilities, a bibliographic guide developed by USDA, NAL, AWIC and more.

Click here to visit the website.

For questions, suggestions or comments, email to olaw@od.nih.gov.



Animal Welfare and Scientific Research: 1985 to 2010 Symposium plus IACUC 101 & AWIC Workshops

Posted: July 29, 2010

Animal Welfare and Scientific Research: 1985 to 2010
October 25-26, 2010 | Bethesda, MD

This two day symposium will acknowledge the achievements of two and a half decades of biomedical research conducted under the U.S. Government Principles, the PHS Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, and the Animal Welfare Act and Regulations. The first day of the symposium will consist of sessions focused on the advances in Animal Housing Facilities, Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees, Education and Training, and Veterinary Care. An evening session will feature a keynote address by Charles McCarthy titled “Standing on the Shoulders of Giants”. On the second day, biomedical researchers and policy experts will discuss the contributions of animal models to human and animal health.

Pre-conference Events: IACUC 101 & AWIC Workshops
October 24, 2010 | Bethesda, MD

IACUC 101 – is a basic course that provides a one-day didactic and interactive exploration of IACUC fundamentals appropriate for new and seasoned IACUC members, IACUC affiliates, and individuals responsible for their institution's animal care program. The course provides a basic yet comprehensive overview of the laws, regulations, and policies that govern the humane care and use of research animals.

Meeting the Information Requirements of the Animal Welfare Act: AWIC Workshop – is a one day workshop for individuals who are responsible for providing information to meet the requirements of the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). This workshop is targeted for principal investigators, members of IACUCs, information providers, administrators of animal use programs, and veterinarians. All participants will receive a resource manual. Each participant must bring their own wireless enabled laptop for use during the workshop.

Program information
The symposium and pre-conference events will be held at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Convention Center, Bethesda, MD. For program, registration, and accommodation information, visit http://www.awsrsymposium.com. Discounted registration rates available through August 31.

Continuing Education
The IACUC 101 workshop was reviewed and approved by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) RACE program for 6.5 hours of continuing education credits in jurisdictions which recognize AAVSB RACE approval. Please contact the AAVSB RACE program at race@aavsb.org should you have any comments/concerns regarding this program’s validity or relevancy to the veterinary profession.

The symposium and AWIC workshop have been submitted (but not yet approved) for hours of continuing education credit in jurisdictions which recognize AAVSB RACE approval; however participants should be aware that some boards have limitations on the number of hours accepted in certain categories and/or restrictions on certain methods of delivery of continuing education. Call Mary Lou James at 314-997-6896 for further information.



Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL): 5th Edition

Posted: July 23, 2010

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released the fifth edition of “Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories” (BMBL). BMBL is produced by the CDC’s Office of Health and Safety and the National Institutes of Health to provide national guidelines to promote the safety and health of workers in biological and medical laboratories.

The BMBL was revised in December 2009* and the fifth edition is now available for purchase or download. For additional information, visit the CDC’s biosafety website at http://www.cdc.gov/biosafety (or http://www.cdc.gov/od/ohs). See also NOT-OD-10-117.

*Please be advised that the online version of the BMBL contains a number of updated websites which have changed since publication, and as a living, online reference resource, may continue to be updated as websites continue to change. In addition, minor editorial changes were made to the Foreword, Contributors, Contents, Appendices, and Acronyms sections, while maintaining the integrity of the document’s full text. In-text errors which are subsequently identified will be included in any errata to be published (online only); look for any errata to be posted on alongside the BMBL on CDC’s biosafety website (links above).



IACUC 101/201 PLUS Workshops: August 18-19, San Francisco, CA

Posted: July 20, 2010

IACUC 101 and 201 PLUS Workshops will be held on August 18 and 19, 2010 in San Francisco, California.

IACUC 101 – “The Basics” – is a full day didactic and interactive educational program designed to provide Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) members, administrators, veterinarians, animal care staff, researchers, regulatory personnel and compliance officers with information on the role and responsibilities of IACUCs, including an understanding of federal policies and regulations governing laboratory animal welfare.

IACUC 201 PLUS – “The Process PLUS Select Topics” – is a highly interactive program that takes the fundamentals of IACUC 101 and applies them to the process and mechanisms of ensuring compliance. The morning and afternoon sessions are divided into 3 tracks based on an individual’s IACUC role, responsibility, and interests. Track topics are customized to include subjects of timely interest. The program concludes with open questions and answers to representatives of OLAW, USDA, and AAALAC.

The California Biomedical Research Association (CBRA) will host the programs with support from NIH OLAW, USDA APHIS Animal Care, and AAALAC International. For program, registration and accommodation information, see IACUC 101/201 PLUSLink to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer



Update on Applicability of the Shelf Life Extension Program (SLEP)

Posted: July 16, 2010

Update on Applicability of the Shelf Life Extension Program (SLEP) has been published in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts on July 14, 2010, NOT-OD-10-114. This Notice informs Public Health Service (PHS) grantee institutions regarding applicability of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Shelf Life Extension Program (SLEP).

For questions, suggestions or comments, email to olaw@od.nih.gov.



Scientific and Humane Issues in the Use of Random Source Dogs and Cats in Research

Posted: July 7, 2010

The Institute for Laboratory Animal Research of the National Academy of Sciences has published “Scientific and Humane Issues in the Use of Random Source Dogs and Cats in Research” Link to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer. This report examines the value of random-source animals in biomedical research and the role of Class B dealers who acquire and resell live dogs and cats to research institutions. The report can be found on the OLAW Useful Links webpage, under Publications and Reports. To download the report, click here (PDF – 1.7 MB).



“Ethics and IACUC Responsibility” Seminar Available for Viewing

Posted: July 6, 2010

A recording of the OLAW IACUC Staff Online Seminar, “Ethics and IACUC Responsibility”, held June 10, 2010 has been posted on the OLAW website. The seminar recording can be found on the Education Resources page.



Guidance Regarding Update of the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals

Posted: June 16, 2010

Update of the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals has been published in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts on June 4, 2010, NOT-OD-10-102. This Notice informs Public Health Service (PHS) grantee institutions regarding the release of a prepublication copy of the 8th Edition of the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Guide) by the Institute for Laboratory Animal Research of the National Academy of Sciences. The prepublication copy is available at http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=12910 Link to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer (PDF – 893 KB).

For questions, suggestions or comments, email to olaw@od.nih.gov.



Updated Guidance in Lab Animal Protocol Review Column: June Issue

Posted: June 15, 2010

Visit the Guidance section on the OLAW website for updated Commentary on Lab Animal Protocol Review columns. “A word from OLAW and USDA” responds to the topic “Revisiting approved protocols” in the June 2010 issue.

Click to download the column: Lab Animal 2010; 39(6). (PDF - 180 KB)

To further explore this and other topics, browse the OLAW Topic Index.

For additional information, visit OLAW.



Update of the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals

Posted: June 2, 2010

The Institute for Laboratory Animal Research of the National Academy of Sciences has released a prepublication copy of the 8th Edition of the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Guide), see http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=12910. Until the 8th Edition of the Guide is published in its final form, the 1996 Edition will remain the official Guide for the purposes of implementation of the PHS Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (PHS Policy). The PHS Policy requires that Assured institutions base their programs of animal care and use on the Guide and that they comply with the regulations (9 CFR, Subchapter A) issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) under the Animal Welfare Act.



OLAW Online Seminar Series: June 10, 2010

Posted: May 27, 2010

“Ethics and IACUC Responsibility” – June 10th – Ernest Prentice, Ph.D., Professor and Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, University of Nebraska Medical Center, will be the guest speaker for the OLAW Outreach Program, a free online seminar series.

IO Seminar
– Noon to 1 pm (Eastern time) – This seminar is limited to Institutional Officials (IOs) at PHS Assured institutions. Preregistration is required.

IACUC Staff Seminar
– 2 to 3 pm (Eastern time) – This seminar is tailored to Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) staff and members, veterinarians, compliance personnel and animal care staff. Registration is limited to one connection per PHS Assured institution. Preregistration is required. This seminar will be recorded.

Participants are encouraged to submit questions in advance by email to olawdpe@od.nih.gov.

Registration for OLAW Online Seminars remains valid for future events. Participants who registered for previous Seminars and already have web meeting accounts do not need to re-register.
For more information contact OLAW at 301-496-7163 or email to olawdpe@od.nih.gov.



ILAR Journal Volume 51(2): Disaster Planning and Management

Posted: May 4, 2010

Disaster Planning and Management Link to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer
Scientific Editors: Kathryn Bayne and Jim Womack

"The articles in this issue vividly illustrate that it is impossible to effectively plan for every possible disaster. But periodic review of an institution’s disaster plan, preparation (to the extent possible) for the unexpected, and communication with a wide range of professionals (both on-site and at the local, state, and, as applicable, federal levels) can mitigate damage and facilitate recovery. Because individuals working with animals in other sectors (e.g., agriculture, animal shelters) may not have the opportunity to share hard-earned wisdom and guidance, cross-sector dialogue should be promoted. We hope that the hard-won lessons learned by our contributors can be useful to colleagues both in laboratory animal science and in other fields."
— Kathryn A. Bayne



Instructions for Completion and Technical Evaluation of the Vertebrate Animal Section (VAS) in NIH Contract Proposals

Posted: April 21, 2010

Instructions for Completion and Technical Evaluation of the Vertebrate Animal Section (VAS) in NIH Contract Proposals has been published in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts on April 19, 2010, NOT-OD-10-049. This Notice is to clarify the information that must be included in a separate section of the Technical Proposal titled the Vertebrate Animal Section (VAS) of contract proposals for biomedical and behavioral Research and Development (R&D), research training, and biological testing activities that use live vertebrate animals. It also explains how the VAS is evaluated as part of the NIH technical evaluation process for award of a contract. Distinction is made between the oversight role of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) and review responsibility of the NIH Scientific Review Group (SRG).

For questions, suggestions or comments, email to olaw@od.nih.gov.



Update of Sample Animal Welfare Assurance for Foreign Institutions

Posted: April 20, 2010

Update of Sample Animal Welfare Assurance for Foreign Institutions has been published in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts on April 16, 2010, NOT-OD-10-083. This Notice informs Public Health Service (PHS) grantee institutions regarding revisions to the sample Animal Welfare Assurance for Foreign Institutions document (Foreign Assurance) formerly known as the Statement of Compliance for Foreign Institutions. The revised sample Foreign Assurance is available for download on the OLAW webpage for Foreign Assurances.

For questions, suggestions or comments, email to olaw@od.nih.gov.



Guidance on Confirming Appropriate Charges to NIH Awards during Periods of Noncompliance for Activities Involving Animals

Posted: April 19, 2010

Guidance on Confirming Appropriate Charges to NIH Awards during Periods of Noncompliance for Activities Involving Animals has been published in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts on April 15, 2010, NOT-OD-10-081. This Notice provides additional clarification in reference to Notice NOT-OD-07-044 regarding the grantee’s responsibilities when animal activities have been conducted which do not meet the terms and conditions of grant award.

For questions, suggestions or comments, email to olaw@od.nih.gov.



USDA AWIC Workshop: May 5-6, Beltsville, MD

Posted: April 8, 2010

Meeting the Information Requirements of the Animal Welfare Act: A Workshop

The USDA Animal Welfare Information Center (AWIC) teaches a one and a half day workshop at the National Agricultural Library (NAL) in Beltsville, Maryland for individuals who are responsible for providing information to meet the requirements of the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). The workshop is targeted for principal investigators, members of IACUCs, information providers, administrators of animal use programs, and veterinarians.

Course objectives are to provide:

  • Overview of the AWA and its information requirements
  • Review of the alternatives concept
  • Introduction to NAL, AWIC and other organizations
  • Instruction on the use of existing information databases/networks
  • On-line database searching experience

The next workshop is being held on May 5 and 6, 2010 in Beltsville, MD. For additional information, visit http://www.nal.usda.gov/awic/awicworkshops/regform.htm.



Instructions for Completion and Peer Review of the Vertebrate Animal Section (VAS) in NIH Grant Applications and Cooperative Agreements

Posted: March 19, 2010

Instructions for Completion and Peer Review of the Vertebrate Animal Section (VAS) in NIH Grant Applications and Cooperative Agreements has been published in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts on March 17, 2010, NOT-OD-10-027. This Notice is to clarify the information that must be included in the Vertebrate Animal Section (VAS) of grant applications and cooperative agreements that use live vertebrate animals in research. It also explains how the VAS is evaluated as part of the NIH peer review process and is considered as part of the overall scoring. Distinction is made between the oversight role of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) and review responsibility of the NIH Scientific Review Group (SRG).  

For questions, suggestions or comments, contact OLAW help.



New FAQs Posted on OLAW Website

Posted: March 18, 2010

OLAW has posted three new FAQs on their website. Topics include change in scope and research studies involving privately owned animals.

FAQ A7 - Does the IACUC need to approve research studies that use privately owned animals, such as pets?

FAQ A8 - How can the IACUC determine if activities involving privately owned animals constitute veterinary clinical care or research activities?

FAQ B13 - Does OLAW expect the IACUC to notify NIH when there is a change in an animal activity supported by PHS funds?

For questions, suggestions or comments, email to olaw@od.nih.gov.



"Physical Plant Issues" Seminar Available for Viewing

Posted: March 16, 2010

A recording of the OLAW IACUC Staff Online Seminar, “Physical Plant Issues”, held March 11, 2010 is now available. The seminar recording can be found on the OLAW Education Resources page.



New FAQ on Laparoscopic Procedures Posted

Posted: February 26, 2010

OLAW has posted a new FAQ on the topic “Are laparoscopic procedures considered major surgery?” This guidance can be found in the Animal Use and Management section under FAQ F13.

For questions, suggestions or comments, email to olaw@od.nih.gov.



OLAW Online Seminar Series: March 11, 2010

Posted: February 24, 2010

“Physical Plant Issues” – March 11th – Ron Banks, D.V.M., Director, Office of Animal Welfare Assurance, Duke University, will be the guest speaker for the OLAW Outreach Program, a free online seminar series.

IO Seminar
– Noon to 1 pm (Eastern time) – This seminar is limited to Institutional Officials (IOs) at PHS Assured institutions. Preregistration is required.

IACUC Staff Seminar – 2 to 3 pm (Eastern time) – This seminar is tailored to Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) staff and members, veterinarians, compliance personnel and animal care staff. Registration is limited to one connection per PHS Assured institution. Preregistration is required. This seminar will be recorded.

Participants are encouraged to submit questions in advance by email to olawdpe@od.nih.gov.

Registration for OLAW Online Seminars remains valid for future events.  Participants who registered for previous Seminars and already have web meeting accounts do not need to re-register.
For more information contact OLAW at 301-496-7163 or email to olawdpe@od.nih.gov.



IACUC 101 Workshop and PRIM&R 2010 IACUC Conference: March 21-23, 2010 in Baltimore, MD

Posted: February 3, 2010

Public Responsibility in Medicine and Research (PRIM&R) 2010 IACUC Conference – “Celebrating 25 Years of the Guiding Principles for Animal Research” – will be held on March 22-23, 2010 in Baltimore, MD.

Pre-Conference Educational Programs, Essentials of IACUC Administration and IACUC 101, will be held on March 20-21, 2010.

IACUC 101 is a basic course that provides a one-day didactic and interactive exploration of IACUC fundamentals appropriate for new and seasoned IACUC members, IACUC affiliates, and individuals responsible for their institution's animal care program. The course provides a basic yet comprehensive overview of the laws, regulations, and policies that govern the humane care and use of research animals.

PRIM&R 2010 IACUC Conference – “Celebrating 25 Years of the Guiding Principles for Animal Research” – is a two-day conference that will include a range of keynote addresses, panels, workshops, and didactic sessions, designed to help build and strengthen an effective animal care and use program.

Program information – For program, registration, and accommodation information, visit http://www.primr.org/Conferences.aspx?id=6775Link to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer

Support provided in part by the NIH OLAW, USDA APHIS Animal Care, and AAALAC International.



2010 IACUC Regional Education Conference: March 4, Seattle, WA

Posted: January 29, 2010

The Northwest Association for Biomedical Research (NWABR) is presenting the “2010 IACUC Regional Education Conference” on March 4, 2010 in Seattle, Washington. The one-day conference will bring together IACUC administrators, staff, veterinarians, researchers and animal lab technicians. There will be interactive discussions for new and experienced IACUC members, opportunities to ask questions of regulatory officials, and networking time with colleagues. For conference highlights and registration information, visit http://www.nwabr.org/takepart/iacuc.htmLink to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer



ILAR Journal Volume 51(1): Regenerative Medicine: From Mice to Men

Posted: January 25, 2010

Regenerative Medicine: From Mice to Men Link to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer
Scientific Editors: Estelle Gauda and Joel Glover

"Efforts to build on the knowledge gained through stem cell research, and eventually reach the goal of providing effective and safe therapies through the use of stem cell interventions, require the resolution of many challenges. Research in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine covers a broad spectrum of basic and translational studies, in which progress is slow but steady and the use of animals has been and remains paramount."
— John D. Gearhart and Russell C. Addis



Guide for the Care and Use of Agricultural Animals in Research and Teaching: Third Edition, January 2010

Posted: January 22, 2010

The Federation of Animal Science Societies (FASS) has released the third edition of the Guide for the Care and Use of Agricultural Animals in Research and Teaching (FASS Ag Guide). The first edition was published in 1988, and the first revised edition was published in 1999. The FASS Ag Guide serves as a reference document for meeting the needs and requirements of agricultural animals utilized in research and teaching.

Institutions that use agricultural animals in PHS supported animal activities are responsible for meeting the guidelines of the ILAR Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Guide). For additional OLAW guidance on the use of the Guide and the FASS Ag Guide, see FAQ G7.



PRIM&R Webinar - Top Tips for IACUCs: Perspectives in Animal Care

Posted: January 15, 2010

Join Public Responsibility in Medicine and Research (PRIM&R) for a Webinar – “Top Tips for IACUCs: Perspectives in Animal Care” – February 9, 2010, from 1:00 until 2:30 PM ET.

Program Agenda:

  • A review of top reportable issues to OLAW
  • An OLAW perspective on crisis preparation and management
  • Selection and training of new IACUC chairs and committee members
  • The fundamentals of program review and inspections

Presenters: Patricia A. Brown, VMD, MS, Diplomate ACLAM, Director of the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Monte Matthews, BA, CPIA, Director of the Office of Veterinary Services & Animal Care Officer at the University of Oregon.

For more information, visit http://www.primr.org/Conferences.aspx?id=7887Link to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer

Disclaimer: The content of this program and views expressed by the presenters and faculty do not necessarily reflect the official views of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.



IACUC 101/201 PLUS Workshops: February 24-25, Lafayette, LA

Posted: January 8, 2010

IACUC 101 and 201 PLUS Workshops will be held on February 24 and 25, 2010 in Lafayette, Louisiana.

IACUC 101 – “The Basics” – is a full day didactic and interactive educational program designed to provide Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) members, administrators, veterinarians, animal care staff, researchers, regulatory personnel and compliance officers with information on the role and responsibilities of IACUCs, including an understanding of federal policies and regulations governing laboratory animal welfare.

IACUC 201 PLUS – “The Process PLUS Select Topics” – is a highly interactive program that takes the fundamentals of IACUC 101 and applies them to the process and mechanisms of ensuring compliance. The morning and afternoon sessions are divided into 3 tracks based on an individual’s IACUC role, responsibility, and interests. Track topics are customized to include subjects of timely interest. The program concludes with open questions and answers to representatives of OLAW, USDA, and AAALAC.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette and the New Iberia Research Center will host the programs with support from NIH OLAW, USDA APHIS Animal Care, and AAALAC International. For program, registration and accommodation information, see IACUC 101/201 PLUSLink to Non-U.S. Government Site - Click for Disclaimer



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