Policy on Training for Investigators Using Animals

The federal Animal Welfare Act (administered by the USDA) and regulations of the Department of Health and Human Services (including PHS) require training and continuing education for all scientists, research technicians, and animal care technicians and others involved with animal care and use. These laws and regulations require that the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) as an agent of the University of Notre Dame, determine that personnel wishing to conduct procedures on animals or animal tissues are qualified and trained to do so on the animal species proposed. To fulfill this responsibility, the following mandatory training program has been developed.

Introductory Training Program
All staff, faculty and students that are involved in the care or use of animals for research, utilizing animal tissues or listed on an animal protocol at the University of Notre Dame are required to participate in the Introductory Training Program. The program includes the use of LATA (Laboratory Animal Training Association) videos. These videos include but are not limited to the following:

The Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals - covering laws and regulations, general humane guidelines (viewed by all animal users)

The Humane Care and Use of the Laboratory Mouse, Rat, and Hamster - husbandry, handling and behavior (viewed by all rodent users)

The Humane Care and Use of the Laboratory Guinea Pig and Rabbit - husbandry, handling and behavior (viewed by all guinea pig and/or rabbit users)

After viewing the videos appropriate to the type of animals being used, a written multiple-choice test is given. A score of 75% is required to pass for each video test. A certificate will be given when the test(s) have been successfully passed. The Technical Services and Training Coordinator, to determine whether to require reviewing of the video(s) and re-testing or review of wrong answers and remedial instruction, will examine the test in the event of a failing score. A list of persons that have taken and passed the test(s) will be made available to the IACUC for verification of training when protocols are reviewed. All animal users will be given an Animal Care and Use Manual that includes:

• FLSC Rules, Regulations, Policies and Procedures for Personal Safety and Hygiene
• Policy on Training for Investigators Using Animals
• Technical Services Available and Provided by FLSC
• Handouts covering the following topics:
  • Laws, Regulations and Policies that Impact the Care and Use of Animals
  • Alternatives to Animals in Research
  • Recognizing Pain and Distress in Animals
  • The Use of Anesthetics, Analgesics, Tranquilizers and Neuromuscular Blocking Agents
  • Euthanasia- Humane Considerations, Methods & Selection, FLSC Policies & SOP Resources

Procedure Specific Training Program
The Technical Services and Training Coordinator will provide access to training specific to procedures in IACUC- approved protocols. This may consist of videos, auto-tutorials, or hands-on training with the Attending Veterinarian or Registered Veterinary Technician. The main areas addressed in protocol-specific training are:

• Aseptic Surgical Techniques and Post-Operative Care
• Surgical Techniques
• Anesthesia Choices and Monitoring
• Euthanasia Methods