Policy on Personal Hygiene Requirements When Conducting Animal Activities

This policy is applicable to all vertebrate animal activities conducted under the auspices of the University, and applies to all campus locations, including Ann Arbor, Flint, and Dearborn.

1. Hands must be washed with soap and water after completing activities associated with animals;
2. Dedicated work clothing and lab coats, once contaminated, must not be worn in public spaces, other than when traveling between decentralized spaces. Dedicated work clothing and lab coats must not be worn home, except where specifically recommended by EHS, but rather laundered by husbandry staff using in-house facilities, or by professional laundry services;
3. Food and/or beverages intended for human consumption are not permitted in any animal use or housing areas; and
4. Using tobacco products or applying cosmetics is not permitted in any animal use or housing areas.

Research conducted in the field presents unique situations and requires appropriate planning. Strategies for ensuring proper hygiene in the field must follow EHS recommendations. EHS provides guidance for field researchers on their website (https://ehs.umich.edu/research-clinical/field-research/) and is available for individual consultation.

The IACUC has been delegated authority by EHS to enforce the provisions of this policy and, if necessary, suspend research or implement sanctions if policy infractions should occur. The delegation includes but is not limited to:

1. Monitoring activities covered by this policy;
2. Enforcing the implementation of the defined biosafety requirements; and
3. Implementing sanctions and/or suspensions.