Which of the following statements about unannounced inspections is true?

• A. They can be conducted by IACUC and USDA personnel
• B. They are only conducted by AAALAC
• C. They require advance notice
• D. They are optional

Answer: (A)

Unannounced inspections are surprise checks to verify how the animal care and use program is actually being run, not just what’s written in plans or reports. In the lab animal setting, inspectors from the USDA (under the Animal Welfare Act) and the IACUC can conduct these visits to observe conditions, practices, and compliance in real time. AAALAC site visits, on the other hand, are typically scheduled and by invitation, not unannounced. Since unannounced inspections happen without advance notice, and they’re not optional for facilities subject to oversight, the statement that these inspections can be conducted by IACUC and USDA personnel is the true one.