I: Related Policies and Guidelines

Policy#: 529-253 Occupational Health Program - Policy on Enrollment

II: Background

The University of California Riverside (UCR) supports biomedical research in an ongoing quest for knowledge to benefit the health and well-being of humans and animals. UCR is committed to ensuring the humane treatment of animals used in biomedical research. As part of this commitment, UCR requires all personnel to be trained in the proper care and use of research/teaching animals prior to receiving the privilege of working with animals.

III: Policy

A) In accordance with Federal requirements (PHS Policy and the Animal Welfare Act), the IACUC mandates online training for all animal users. CITI Program provides an overview of the role of the IACUC, animal care and use legislation, methods for reporting concerns about animal use, Animal Use Protocols, and an overview of common animal procedures. Personnel must pass multiple exams during the module, and users will be required to complete a refresher course every three years.

B) Animal users are required to submit a Medical Evaluation form to receive clearance from EH&S Occupational Health.

C) A review of species-specific training videos that elaborate on restraint and handling specific to the species, as well as common injection and medication administration routes.

D) Additional training regarding access to the vivarium may be required as per Office of the Campus Veterinarian (OCV). Hands-on training sessions can be requested by an animal user or required by the IACUC and/or OCV.

All animal users must complete the training requirements prior to initiating activities involving live vertebrate animals and gaining access to vivaria. Noncompliance may result in: discussion and possible sanctions by the IACUC, such as potential suspension of the AUP, and/or documentation in the IACUC Semiannual Program review as a specific institutional deficiency.

Originally approved: 11/7/2008; Reviewed and updated: 12/14/2020; Reviewed and updated 01/08/2024