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Welfare and Compliance Topics
Alternatives and NAMs
The 3Rs (replacement, reduction, and refinement) are foundational principles in responsible animal use. In particular, the consideration of alternatives such as new approach methodologies (NAMs) where scientifically appropriate, is important to ensure the judicious use of animals.
Cephalopods in Research
The use of cephalopods in research is a growing field, and the following resources are provided to assist institutions in maintaining good animal welfare when working with these species.
Collaborations
Find basic background information for investigators and research administration on the types of collaborations and the documentation that OLAW may require.
Departures from the Guide
Learn about the criteria for departures from the Guide, when and how to report them to the Institutional Official, and circumstances that require reporting to OLAW.
Disaster Preparedness and Response
The following resources are provided to assist animal care and use programs in preparing for and coping with disasters and emergencies while maintaining animal welfare.
Enrichment and Social Housing Resources
The following are provided as additional sources for education and information on enrichment and social housing. These resources are for educational purposes only; their inclusion on this page does not constitute an endorsement or approval by OLAW.
Grant and Contract to Protocol Congruence Review
OLAW clarifies the requirements, responsibility, timing, and conduct of grant and contract to protocol congruency review for NIH grant applications and contract proposals involving research with live vertebrate animals in response to the 21st CCA.
Protocol Review Resources
Access laws and policy information, guidance and and other helpful resources relating to protocol review here.
Semiannual Program Review and Inspection
Access laws and policy information, guidance and and other helpful resources relating to semiannual evaluations here.
Vertebrate Animals Section
The following guidance is provided to assist applicants and offerors in preparing the Vertebrate Animals Section (VAS) for submission to the NIH, and to assist reviewers in evaluating the VAS of applications and proposals. Here you will find an overview of the requirements, a checklist for applicants and reviewers, detailed instructions, and responsibilities of applicants, reviewers, and NIH staff.
Zebrafish
Learn about guidance specific to egg laying vertebrates, including zebrafish.