What is an 'Assurance' in the context of the PHS Policy?

• A. A budget document
• B. A grant approval letter
• C. An Assurance is the institution's written commitment to comply with the PHS Policy, approved by OLAW.
• D. A certificate of IACUC accreditation

Answer: (C)

Assurance is the institution’s written commitment to comply with the PHS Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, approved by OLAW. It serves as the official agreement showing the organization will maintain the necessary program elements—an IACUC with authority, veterinary care, personnel training, approved protocols, and written procedures—to ensure humane treatment of animals in PHS-funded activities. This document is filed with OLAW and assigns an Assurance number; it is updated whenever there are changes to personnel, IACUC composition, or the animal welfare program. If compliance is not maintained, PHS funding can be suspended or terminated. It is not a budget document, a grant approval letter, or a certificate of IACUC accreditation.