I: Background

Sharpened guillotines are critical to ensure animal welfare, especially when used to euthanize unanesthetized animals. Sharpened guillotines are also critical to ensure smooth function for investigator safety.

II: Policy

a) Maintenance:

• Guillotines must be kept clean and the mechanism tested regularly (testing consists of moving the mechanism up and down and ensuring smooth action). 
• Guillotines must be oiled yearly or earlier if the movement is not smooth. 
• Blades must be sharpened or replaced every three years or earlier if rust is present.
• The guillotine must be labeled (sharpie is acceptable) with the date and action (sharpened or replaced).

b) Training:

• PIs are responsible for ensuring lab members are trained in the appropriate use of the guillotine.
• Appropriate placement of the animal and smooth operation of the instrument are necessary to ensure animal welfare. 
• Careful use of the instrument in order to avoid movement/tipping during use is important to ensure the safety of the operator’s hands and fingers. 
• PIs should document this training.

Created 11/4/2019; Reviewed 02/12/2024