Which action best aligns with limiting facility access to IACUC-approved individuals?

• A. Allowing all employees to enter
• B. Limiting access to those listed on protocols
• C. Requiring medical clearance for entry
• D. Only permitting entry during business hours

Answer: (B)

Access to the animal facility should be limited to individuals listed on approved protocols. This ensures that only personnel who are trained for the specific species, procedures, and welfare safeguards described in the protocol can enter, handle, or care for the animals. The IACUC approves studies with defined personnel and training requirements, so tying access to those listed on the protocol provides appropriate oversight, accountability, and compliance with animal welfare regulations. It also helps protect both the animals and the staff by ensuring that only prepared individuals are involved in procedures and enclosure work.

Medical clearance relates to a person’s health status, not to whether they are authorized to perform the approved work with the animals. Limiting access to business hours does not guarantee that only those authorized on the protocol can enter, since non-approved personnel could still gain access during those hours. By restricting facility entry to those named on the protocols, the facility supports proper training, supervision, and record-keeping aligned with IACUC approval.