Which of the following statements regarding the process of polling IACUC members via email is true?

Polling IACUC members via email is an established practice, particularly when certain procedural requirements and considerations are in play. The correct answer addresses the scenario in which polling is used specifically to allow IACUC members the opportunity to invoke a full committee review in cases when the designated reviewer system is being employed.

This is significant because while designated reviewers are authorized to assess specific protocols or issues, IACUC members retain the right to call for the involvement of the entire committee if they believe the matters at hand warrant a broader review. Polling via email enables members who may not be able to attend a convened meeting to actively participate in this critical decision-making process without requiring a physical quorum. This helps ensure that protocols are robustly evaluated, reflecting the principle of care for animal welfare and regulatory compliance.

In contrast, other statements might conflate the intent or procedures surrounding IACUC operational responsibilities, such as quorum requirements or approval processes for protocols. Understanding the nuances of these rules is essential for maintaining compliance with regulations governing IACUC operations.