In the case of three or more designated reviewers, what is required for a decision to be made?

In the context of designated reviewers within the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) framework, the requirement that all reviewers must agree or refer the decision to a full committee review emphasizes the necessity for consensus among the reviewers when evaluating animal research protocols. This process maintains a high standard of ethical review and oversight, reflecting the importance of ensuring that all perspectives and concerns are taken into account before proceeding with a study involving animal subjects.

A requirement for unanimous agreement is intended to foster thorough deliberation and to address any potential issues that may arise in regard to animal welfare, scientific merit, and compliance with regulations. If consensus is not reached, the protocol is escalated to the full committee, allowing for broader discussion and input, which can enhance the review process and ensure a more rigorous examination of the proposed work.

In IACUC operations, reaching a majority vote or allowing for outcomes based on fewer participants might not provide adequate scrutiny necessary for protecting animal welfare and adhering to ethical standards. Hence, this approach underscores the significance of collective agreement among reviewers in safeguarding the interests of both the animals involved and the integrity of the research process.