ALAT Ethics in Animal Research 2

Question 1

Who first formally proposed the Three Rs framework for ethical animal use?

Accepted Answer

William Russell and Rex Burch in 1959

Answer

Russell and Burch introduced the Three Rs in their 1959 book 'The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique.'

Question 2

What is Reduction in the context of the Three Rs?

Accepted Answer

Using methods that minimize the number of animals needed for reliable results

Answer

Reduction means using statistical and experimental design methods to minimize animal numbers while achieving scientifically valid results.

Question 3

What ethical principle requires that animal pain be minimized unless scientifically justified?

Accepted Answer

Minimizing harm (Refinement)

Answer

The principle of minimizing harm, embodied in Refinement, requires that pain and distress be minimized. Unalleviated pain requires specific justification.

Question 4

What is the ethical basis for requiring alternatives searches before approving protocols?

Accepted Answer

To ensure non-animal methods are used when they can replace, reduce, or refine animal use

Answer

Alternatives searches ensure investigators have considered whether non-animal methods could replace animals or procedures could minimize pain.

Question 5

What ethical responsibility do animal care technicians have regarding welfare concerns?

Accepted Answer

An ethical and legal obligation to report through proper channels with retaliation protection

Answer

Technicians have both ethical and legal obligations to report welfare concerns. Federal regulations provide whistleblower protections.

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Practice Test

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Practice Test

ALAT Ethics in Animal Research 2