Which organization accredits research institutions that meet national laws and guidelines?

• A. AALAS
• B. AAALAC
• C. OLAW
• D. USDA

Answer: (B)

Accreditation of animal care programs comes from an external, independent body that evaluates whether an institution’s program meets established standards for the humane care and use of animals. The organization that conducts this for research facilities is AAALAC International. It is a voluntary process, with on-site evaluations that review veterinary care, husbandry, facilities, training, and how animal-use procedures are overseen, ensuring alignment with national laws and guidelines such as the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service Policy. Achieving accreditation signals to researchers, funders, and IACUCs that the program maintains high standards and a strong commitment to compliance.

The other organizations have different roles. AALAS is a professional association that provides training and certification for personnel, not accreditation of institutions. OLAW is a federal office that oversees compliance with PHS policy but does not issue accreditations. USDA enforces the Animal Welfare Act through inspections, but does not grant accreditation to institutions.