Use of Electronic Communications for IACUC Functions.

The Public Health Service (PHS) Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Policy) describes eight basic Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) functions (PHS 1986, IV.B.1. 8.). These functions vary in complexity and include reviewing the overall animal program and inspecting the animal facilities every 6 months; reviewing and approving animal study proposals initially and at least once every 3 years thereafter (annually under U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal Welfare regulations [9 CFR 1-3]); reviewing concerns about the animal care and use program; making recommendations to the institutional official about any aspect of the institution's programs, facilities, or training; and suspending activities involving animals under certain circumstances.