Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) Policy on Implementing the 3Rs in Animal Research
Number: IACUC-POL-022
Responsible Office: Office of Research and Creative Scholarship (ORCS)
Applies to: Principal Investigators Conducting Animal Research
1. Purpose
This policy outlines the institutional commitment to the ethical and humane use of animals in research, testing, and teaching through the implementation of the 3Rs—Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement. It establishes expectations for all personnel involved in animal research and provides specific guidance on refined handling practices to minimize animal stress and enhance welfare.
All research and teaching activities involving animals must actively consider and apply the principles of the 3Rs throughout the protocol lifecycle. Investigators are required to:
- Replace animals with non-animal models wherever scientifically and ethically feasible.
- Reduce the number of animals used to the minimum necessary to achieve statistically valid results.
- Refine procedures and husbandry to minimize pain, distress, and discomfort, with an emphasis on refined handling techniques.
The IACUC will review all protocols for compliance with this policy and will assist investigators in identifying opportunities to incorporate the 3Rs.
2. Responsibilities
- Investigators must provide justification for animal use and demonstrate consideration of the 3Rs in protocol submissions.
- Veterinary and animal care staff must ensure refinement is implemented in daily care, handling, and procedures.
- The IACUC will evaluate protocols, provide training, and ensure adherence to 3Rs principles during reviews and post-approval monitoring.
3. Training
The Office of Animal Care and Use and Laboratory Animal Resources staff will provide regular training on the 3Rs and refined handling methods. Investigators and staff must complete initial and refresher training to maintain protocol approval.
4. References
- The Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, 8th Edition
- , USDA
- Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals
-
-
- AAALAC
- Russell, W.M.S. and Burch, R.L., (1959). The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique, Methuen, London. A digital version of the Principles may be accessed for free on the of Johns Hopkins University's Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT).
5. Review, Approval and Version History
|
Version |
Date |
Description of Changes |
Approved By |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1.0 |
May 19, 2025 |
Initial policy creation |
IACUC Committee |