I: Background and Purpose:

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.

In accordance with Federal requirements (PHS Policy and the Animal Welfare Act), the IACUC mandates online training (with an exam) that provides the federally required training, describes the animal care and use program at UCR, and includes information on basic animal procedures.

 

II: Related Policies and Guidance

• 529-253 Occupational Health Program - Policy on Enrollment
• 529-224 IACUC Review Procedures of Animal Use Protocols (AUPs)

 

III: Policy

A. Training Requirements:

• All PIs must complete the online training course prior to approval of an AUP.
• All lab personnel added to an AUP via a personnel amendment must complete all required training before the personnel amendment is approved. The IACUC Office (iacuc@ucr.edu) will provide the instructions needed for completion of training, followed by personnel amendment approval.
• The required training includes an Occupational Health Program (OHP) component overseen by UCR EH&S. All individuals expected to work with animals must enroll in the OHP.

B. PI’s Responsibility:

• All lab personnel expected to perform surgical procedures are required to complete the online training.
• In addition to the online Aseptic Surgery Training, the Principal Investigator (PI) is responsible for ensuring that all personnel receive training in all procedures involving laboratory animals prior to handling vertebrate animals.
• The PI is also responsible for maintaining the documentation of training for laboratory-specific animal procedures approved on their AUP(s). This documentation must be made available to the IACUC and other oversight bodies upon request.

C. Training Requests and Verification of Proficiency

• Any requests to receive training on animal handling procedures by laboratory personnel should be submitted to the Office of the Campus Veterinarian (OCV).
• The IACUC or OCV may also request additional training or verification of proficiency related to animal handling or animal procedures, should noncompliance related to these procedures be identified.
• Verification of proficiency may be required for invasive procedures or as per AUP approval (e.g., physical method of euthanasia without prior anesthesia).

D. Retraining:

• The IACUC requires the online training course to be repeated every three years, unless otherwise stated by the IACUC.
• The IACUC may request retraining of the PI or lab personnel if warranted, or due to issues of compliance.

Originally approved: 11/7/2008; Reviewed and updated: 12/14/2020; 01/08/2024 Revised 06/09/25