Unanticipated Problems

Unanticipated events that arise during the course of a project involving animals in research or teaching should be reported to the Attending Veterinarian immediately. In addition, a form recording the pertinent information about the unanticipated event should be submitted to the IACUC. An unanticipated event is any happening not consistent with routine expected outcomes that result in any animal welfare issues (e.g., death, disease, distress) or human health risks (e.g., zoonotic disease, injuries). The Event Reporting Form is located on IRBNet under Forms and Templates.

Report a Concern

An individual who has a concern involving the care and use of animals at URI may have those concerns reviewed. All concerns will be investigated. The minimum report must include nature of complaint, location of where the activity being reported occurred, date and approximate time of the incident. Whenever possible, indicate the name of the individuals involved in the activity and a protocol number if known. Mistreatment is physical or psychological, wrongful or abusive treatment of an animal. Noncompliance means that procedures or policies are not being followed, and this may be willful or stem from confusion or misunderstanding.

The Animal Welfare Act protects the rights of individuals reporting animal welfare concerns and prohibits discrimination against or reprisal for reporting violations of regulations or standards under the Animal Welfare Act. Animal welfare concerns should be promptly brought to the attention of any of the contacts listed on the Reporting Animal Welfare Concerns document below. Reports can also be made anonymously through the independently administered, URI Ethics Hotline website, or the toll-free hotline at 1-855-222-0764. Please note that there may be a time lag in reporting using this service.

Reporting Animal Welfare Concerns

For more information about reporting requirements refer to the IACUC Policy on Prompt Reporting of Unanticipated Outcomes Protocol Deviations and Adverse Events.

Contact

Office of Research Integrity
Gwen Currier, IACUC/IBC Specialist, 401.874.2526
Heather McClary, Director, 401.874.4813
or researchintegrity@etal.uri.edu, 401.874.4328