Which action can the IACUC take if a protocol is found not to comply with AWA, PHS policy, the Guide and Animal Welfare Assurance?

Which action can the IACUC take if a protocol is found not to comply with AWA, PHS policy, the Guide and Animal Welfare Assurance?

• A. Suspend the protocol
• B. Review the protocol for compliance
• C. Provide training to investigators
• D. Report the violation to a funding agency

Answer: (A)

When a protocol is not in compliance with AWA, PHS policy, The Guide, and Animal Welfare Assurance, the IACUC can suspend the protocol to halt all animal activities immediately. This direct action protects animals and prevents further noncompliant procedures while the issue is investigated and corrected. Suspension is the most immediate and protective step, and it creates the opportunity for a formal compliance review and required corrective actions, such as revisions to the protocol, retraining of personnel, or other safeguards. After suspending, the IACUC typically conducts a thorough review to determine what changes are needed and how to bring the study back into compliance. In some cases, if violations are serious or cannot be remedied, additional steps like reporting to the funding agency may be considered, but the first priority is stopping noncompliant activity through suspension.

When a protocol is not in compliance with AWA, PHS policy, The Guide, and Animal Welfare Assurance, the IACUC can suspend the protocol to halt all animal activities immediately. This direct action protects animals and prevents further noncompliant procedures while the issue is investigated and corrected. Suspension is the most immediate and protective step, and it creates the opportunity for a formal compliance review and required corrective actions, such as revisions to the protocol, retraining of personnel, or other safeguards. After suspending, the IACUC typically conducts a thorough review to determine what changes are needed and how to bring the study back into compliance. In some cases, if violations are serious or cannot be remedied, additional steps like reporting to the funding agency may be considered, but the first priority is stopping noncompliant activity through suspension.