How frequently is the IACUC required to conduct an inspection of a vivarium?

The requirement for the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) to conduct inspections of a vivarium is grounded in the guidelines established by the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. According to these standards, the IACUC must conduct inspections of animal facilities at least semi-annually. This frequency ensures that the animals are being treated humanely, that their living conditions meet necessary standards, and that any issues can be identified and rectified in a timely manner.

Conducting inspections semi-annually allows for a balance between oversight and resource management. It provides enough regularity to ensure compliance with regulations while preventing overwhelming demand on institutional resources. This frequency is critical for maintaining ethical standards in animal research and overall compliance with federal regulations.