How often must IACUC inspect facilities?

• A. Monthly
• B. Every 6 months
• C. Every year
• D. Every 2 years

Answer: (B)

Regular oversight of animal facilities is essential to ensure humane care and compliance with laws. The requirement is to inspect all areas where animals are housed or used at least every six months. This semiannual check keeps an ongoing, timely eye on housing conditions, husbandry, veterinary care, and recordkeeping, and it also accompanies a review of the institution’s program for animal care and use. If any issues are found, the IACUC can require corrective actions and follow-up inspections, and more frequent oversight can be arranged as needed. Monthly or yearly intervals don’t provide the same balance of timely monitoring and practicality, and waiting two years could let problems go undetected.