Share thisFor SOPs to be useful and effective, a new approach is needed. A transformation is needed so SOPs are maintained current and are written for those who will use them.
SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) at many animal care facilities are only updated just prior to IACUC reviews or AAALAC inspections and are written from an administrative perspective rather than the perspective of the user. Keeping SOPs current is an administrative task that takes away from the limited resources available to run facilities, so it’s easier to only update them when it’s absolutely necessary. Because there is very little formal training on writing SOPs they continue to be written using the “we’ve always done it this way” mentality.
What is an SOP?
The first step in this transformation is to define what an SOP is. An SOP is a set of instructions or steps someone follows to complete a job safely, with no adverse impact on animals or the environment, and in a way that maximizes operational and production requirements. SOPs specify job steps that help standardize facility operations while maintaining a healthy and humane environment for the animals under the care of the facility. Keeping SOPs current assures standardization and results in a more effectively run facility.
When is a procedure needed?
Rather than waiting for that annual review or inspection, write SOPs for all jobs and write them before the jobs start. Write them whenever jobs change. Use them as a planning tool for jobs performed at the facility. Write SOPs whenever equipment is installed or changed, when there is a change in the configuration of the building or new species of animals are introduced.