Which body issues the Assurance for institutions engaged in PHS-funded research?

• A. NIH Director.
• B. NIH Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW).
• C. FDA.
• D. EPA.

Answer: (B)

Institutions engaging in Public Health Service–funded research must have an Assurance that commits them to the PHS Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, and this Assurance is issued by the NIH Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare. OLAW reviews and approves the Assurance, ensuring the institution has a plan for proper animal care, IACUC oversight, training, veterinary care, and facilities. It also monitors ongoing compliance with the policy. Without an approved Assurance from OLAW, an institution cannot receive PHS funds for research involving animals. The NIH Director oversees NIH as a whole but does not issue the Assurance, and FDA or EPA regulate different areas and responsibilities outside the PHS animal welfare Assurance system.