Which statement concerning IACUC suspensions is false?

The statement that individual IACUC members may suspend an animal activity on behalf of the IACUC is false. In practice, the authority to suspend an animal-use activity lies with the full IACUC and requires a formal decision made during a convened meeting. This ensures that the suspension is based on collective judgment rather than the decision of an individual member, promoting oversight and accountability within the committee.

When an activity is suspended, it reflects a consensus from the majority of the members present at the meeting, and this action must then be communicated to the institutional official for further regulatory reporting. Sharing the responsibility for suspending activities within the full committee helps to ensure that decisions related to animal welfare are made fairly, based on evidence and discussion, rather than individual interpretations or decisions. This structure fosters a collaborative approach to maintaining compliance with ethical and regulatory standards in animal research.