AAALAC International accreditation in Japan

The final goal of Refinement is the alleviation of pain and distress. This might be completed with the systematic approach rather than the theoretical preparation of rules and documents for laboratory animal welfare. In Japan, the alleviation of pain and distress is thought to be achieved by the establishment of ACUC which reviews experimental protocols. The president of the research organization is responsible for the proper conduct of animal experimentation with adequate manpower and facility and the consequence of this program should be reported publicly. However, for example, the alleviation of pain and distress is almost impossible without the expert as a ACUC member in laboratory animal anesthesia. The early recognition of distress of animals cannot be achieved without well trained technicians. In advanced countries, the third party's inspections and recognition of laboratory animal care program are conducted to assure the proper conduct of animal experimentation in research organizations. AAALAC which used to be one of committees of AALAS was independently founded in 1964. It has become an international organization. The European and Pacific Rim offices have been established and it accredits laboratory animal care program as AAALAC international. The accreditation is made with the site visit by Ad Hoc consultants and councils. There were not any accredited organizations in Japan after the first Ad Hoc consultant was nominated more than ten years ago while there were many organizations accredited in Asian countries. Three year ago, Ina research Inc. has been accredited as a first accredited organization in Japan. Since then there are 5 Organizations fully accredited including Hokkaido University Veterinary School which is the first academic organization with accreditation in Japan. The increase in number of accredited academic organization will be expected for laboratory animal welfare.