employee(s), unless such concerns are reported anonymously; corrective actions if deemed necessary; and a report to the IO of the issue, findings, and actions taken. Reported concerns and any corrective actions taken should be documented.

Mechanisms for reporting concerns should be posted in prominent locations in the facility and on applicable institutional website(s) with instructions on how to report the concern and to whom. Multiple points of contact, including senior management, the IO, IACUC Chair, and AV, are recommended. The process should include a mechanism for anonymity, compliance with applicable whistleblower policies, nondiscrimination against the concerned/reporting party, and protection from reprisals.

Training and regular communication with employees (including personnel such as custodial, maintenance, and administrative staff, who are farther removed from the animal use) about the institution’s animal use activities may reduce potential concerns.

The responsibility of the IACUC is to oversee and routinely evaluate the Program. It is the institution’s responsibility to provide suitable orientation, background materials, access to appropriate resources, and, if necessary, specific training to assist IACUC members in understanding their roles and responsibilities and evaluating issues brought before the committee.

Committee membership includes the following:

• a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine either certified (e.g., by ACLAM, ECLAM, JCLAM, KCLAM) or with training and experience in laboratory animal science and medicine or in the use of the species at the institution

• at least one practicing scientist experienced in research involving animals

• at least one member from a nonscientific background, drawn from inside or outside the institution

• at least one public member to represent general community interests in the proper care and use of animals.

Public members should not be laboratory animal users, affiliated in any way with the institution, or members of the immediate family of a person who is affiliated with the institution. The public member may receive