Who has the authority to stop animal activities in an institution?

In an institution, the authority to stop animal activities typically rests with the Institutional Official and Chief Executive Officer. This is because these individuals hold the overall responsibility for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations regarding animal welfare. They are tasked with implementing institutional policies and procedures that safeguard the well-being of research animals, and they have the power to intervene in situations where animal welfare may be compromised.

While the IACUC plays a critical role in overseeing animal research and ensuring ethical standards, its authority is typically advisory and oversight-focused rather than direct intervention. The IACUC can recommend suspending activities, but the ultimate decision to halt those activities is a matter of institutional leadership vested in the designated officials.

The involvement of researchers in stopping activities may occur if there is an immediate and serious concern for animal welfare, but they do not have the formal authority to enforce such a stop. Additionally, decisions made solely with IACUC consensus would still require alignment with institutional policies and executive oversight, underscoring the authority of the Institutional Official and Chief Executive Officer in these matters.