When must all personnel performing animal procedures be properly trained?

Proper training of all personnel performing animal procedures is essential to ensure the welfare of the animals and adherence to ethical and regulatory standards. It is a foundational aspect of animal research that all individuals involved in these procedures have the necessary skills and understanding of humane practices, legal regulations, and institutional policies before engaging in any hands-on work with animals. This proactive approach helps prevent mistakes that could lead to animal suffering or non-compliance with regulations.

Conducting training prior to any procedures ensures that everyone is informed about their responsibilities, aware of the established protocols, and trained in the proper handling and care of animals. It fosters a culture of responsibility and safety within research environments.

The other options suggest that training can occur after procedures begin or under specific exceptions, which could lead to numerous risks, including non-compliance with the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) standards and possible harm to the animals involved. Hence, the significance of option B is paramount in upholding the integrity and ethical governance of animal research.