Introduction to the CCAC Assessment Program

The keystone to the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) Assessment Program is the local animal care committee (ACC) set up by each participating institution according to the CCAC policy statement on:  terms of reference for animal care committees.

Each participating institution is subject to regular peer review by the CCAC, which involves an assessment of the institutional animal care and use program structure, the effectiveness of an institution's ACC to oversee all animal care and use, and the appropriateness of its animal facilities, practices and procedures.

Assessments are based on CCAC guidelines, policies and associated documents and are carried out by CCAC assessment panels. Each assessment panel is composed of at least one scientist and a veterinarian, selected for their experience in animal experimentation and care relevant to the institution to be visited. Each panel also includes a community representative, nominated by the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, and usually drawn from the geographical area of the institution. A CCAC Assessment Director is present at every assessment visit as an ex officio member of the assessment panel.

For further information on the CCAC Assessment Program click here, or contact Dr. Michael Baar, Assessment Director and Assessment Program Coordinator at: mbaar@ccac.ca.