Proactive compliance-the team program approach to revitalizing primate enrichment.

Area of Science:

• Primate Welfare and Enrichment
• Laboratory Animal Science
• Regulatory Compliance in Animal Research

Background:

• The Division of Laboratory Animal Resources (DLAR) at the University of Pittsburgh initiated a proactive nonhuman primate enrichment plan.
• This plan was based on the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) draft policy on environmental enhancement for nonhuman primates.
• The goal was to align with anticipated USDA standards and enhance psychological well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To proactively implement a nonhuman primate enrichment plan aligned with anticipated USDA standards.
• To ensure compliance with new regulations while maintaining research integrity.
• To establish a framework for continuous improvement in primate welfare.

Main Methods:

• Formed a task force to review enrichment literature and regulations.
• Established a subcommittee of veterinarians, investigators, and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) members.
• Created a primate Enrichment Specialist position to oversee implementation and collaboration.

Main Results:

• Developed a revitalized enrichment plan consistent with the USDA's five critical elements.
• Established criteria for plan dispensations and brought existing protocols into compliance.
• Successfully integrated enrichment strategies with research methodologies and documentation.

Conclusions:

• The revitalized enrichment plan is operational and running smoothly.
• Ongoing collaboration between DLAR, investigators, and the Enrichment Specialist ensures effective implementation.
• The IACUC provides oversight for plan approval and dispensation requests.