Share this“What are some tips for AAALAC site visit preparation?”
This question was sent in by a reader, and is one that we hear often at the TurnKey Conference.
We asked Angie Heiser, BS, RLATg, CMAR, Facility Manager, Center for Comparative Medicine, at MGH, Boston, MA to offer some practical tips on how to reduce the preparation stress and achieve a successful visit.
While being ready for an AAALAC, Intl. site visit every day is the most effective tip, below are some additional considerations that can prepare you to show off your facility to its very best advantage
First, know the organization and its purpose. This non-profit organization conducts voluntary triennial peer-reviewed visits which, when successful, certify that your facility has certain standards in your animal care program and that they are maintained. The process of evaluation starts with the program description of your animal care and use program. A team of lab animal veterinarians and researchers follow with a site visit to apply their professional judgment and specific criteria toward a status of accreditation. This is much coveted as it is an accepted “stamp of approval” that your facility has made the effort to be compliant with standards of excellence among the world lab animal community. This accreditation may enable your facility to attract additional researchers and funding.
Second, know what standards will be used. As of September 2011, the three primary resources for evaluation are the 8th Edition of the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, the Guide for the Care and Use of Agricultural Animals in Research and Teaching, and the Council of Europe (ETS No. 123). There is a series of webinars held by AAALAC this year which will describe the updated standards.
Third, know what will be covered regarding animal care. Animal health and health records, cage/pen condition and size, macro animal environment, facility construction and condition, sanitation schedule, feed and bedding storage, proper animal identification, solution storage and labels, expired materials, equipment maintenance, security system, pest control, carcass disposal, emergency contact information, Safety and Occupational Health Program, and staff training. Keep in mind that the site visit will also include a comprehensive review of your IACUC processes, records and protocols.
Lastly, know the most common findings and correct any deficiencies. According to the AAALAC website, the most common noted deficiencies involve the OHS, IACUC, and environmental controls. More specific findings may include unattended anesthetized animals, overcrowded cages, inadequate animal records, expired drugs, unsecured scheduled drugs, unsecured tanks, human food in biological refrigerators, rodents housed on top shelves, recapped needles, bite/scratch kit expired or out of reach, out-dated feed, lack of cagewash monitoring, lack of sanitation schedule, no explanation for animal illness, inadequate OHS training on zoonoses, hazard signage missing, unavailable MSDS to staff, inadequate gas scavenging, and inadequate PPE in NHP areas.