Requirements for Field Courses Involving Observation (no contact) of Non-Human Vertebrates
UC Santa Cruz Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)
Date: December 3, 2009
Enabled by: PHS, AWA
Supersedes: New
Title
IACUC requirements for field courses involving observation (no contact) of non-human vertebrates
Purpose
This policy provides guidance regarding UC Santa Cruz classes involving observation of non-human vertebrates.
Policy
Classes that are strictly observational are likely not required to complete and submit to the IACUC an "Observation Only" protocol application. Criteria for determination is included below.
Procedure
Classes that are strictly observational—i.e., that do not involve handling of animals nor any manipulation of the environment that would influence animals in any measurable way—are likely not required to complete and submit an "Observation Only" protocol application to the IACUC. Courses that do not meet these criteria need to submit an application.
However, if any of the following criteria apply to your course, please contact the IACUC as you will be required to submit an "Observation Only" protocol application to the IACUC:
- Your class includes studies that involve manipulations or procedures that will affect the behavior or physiological state of an animal, including providing food, playback of sounds, habitat manipulation, or closer approach to the animals by humans than they would typically encounter as background levels from the public.
- Your class includes studies that involve collection of animal products or materials that have been in contact with animals that could conceivably present a health risk.
- Your class involves observation of non-human primates, horses, dogs, or cats.
- You are conducting a field course in a foreign country.
