Under which circumstance may animal work commence before IACUC approval is received?

Animal work should not commence before IACUC approval is received in any circumstance. The primary purpose of the IACUC (Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee) is to ensure the ethical and humane treatment of animals in research and educational settings. Prior to receiving IACUC approval, the committee evaluates the proposed use of animals to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and institutional policies.

In specific situations, such as studies requiring renewal, the use of non-AWAR species, or teaching activities involving personal animals, there may appear to be instances where animal work could potentially start before approval. However, these scenarios do not exempt researchers from the requirement of obtaining formal IACUC approval first. The overarching principle is the safeguarding of animal welfare and the assurance that all research adheres to ethical standards; commencing work without approval undermines this fundamental objective.

Thus, irrespective of the scenario, work involving live animals cannot legally or ethically begin until the IACUC has reviewed and approved the protocol.