Colleagues: please see the below communication from DLAM.
The Division of Laboratory Animal Medicine (DLAM) is pleased to announce the ongoing advancement of DLAM’s new training program, which emphasizes lab-led instruction supported by DLAM resources.
Effective March 2nd, laboratory personnel may conduct vivarium walkthroughs independently, starting with the MRL location. Additional sites will be incorporated in the coming months—please monitor future communications for updates.
To repeat, THE PI-LED OPTION IS ONLY AVAILABLE FOR THE MRL VIVARIUM AT THIS TIME.
To facilitate these walkthroughs, laboratory staff must adhere to the following procedures:
- The trainee downloads the “PI-Led Barrier Walkthrough Training – Documentation Form” (hereafter referred to as the “Form”) from Box (link: https://ucla.box.com/s/g2rmwq22wz6abs5pk1l4jfzc29rbc0lw).
- The trainee follows the instructions provided on the Form to confirm completion of all prerequisites, including:
- Listing as personnel on an ARC protocol that includes the designated vivarium.
- Completion of Worksafe orientation for the specific vivarium, such as “Rodent Facility Access Training – MRL Rodents” (the Worksafe module title will correspond with the vivarium name indicated on the Form).
- An approved MHQ on file with Occupational Health.
- Completion of the Worksafe module “DLAM Cage Side Communication Cards.”
- The trainee completes the walkthrough in the selected vivarium (currently limited to MRL basement) alongside a qualified laboratory member with a minimum of six (6) months’ experience in the location:
- Under these circumstances, it is acceptable for another lab member to enter the vivarium without swiping their own card.
- If questioned, clarify that the entry is for PI-lead training purposes.
- The Form should be brought as a checklist during the lab-led walkthrough.
- Under these circumstances, it is acceptable for another lab member to enter the vivarium without swiping their own card.
- The trainee or designated laboratory representative submits the completed and signed Form to DLAM Training, after which vivarium access will be processed.
For comprehensive information regarding the ARC Certification Program for animal users, please consult the ARC Training and Certification Program page.
Should you have any questions or feedback, please contact DLAM Training at DLAMTraining@mednet.ucla.edu .