Policies> Photographing and Videotaping Research Animals and/or Animal Care Services Facilities
1 PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to describe the conditions and prerequisites for photographing and videotaping research animals or Animal Care Services (ACS) facilities. Visual and /or audio documentation (photographs, videotapes, etc.) of invasive experimental procedures or altered behavior resulting from experimental manipulations must be made only when necessary for data analysis or presentation.
2 SCOPE
This policy applies to UF Principal Investigators and their staff.
3 POLICY
3.1 Visual records of animals or animal research procedures may inadvertently appear to suggest inappropriate animal care and use, or may be used out of context by anti-research interest groups.
3.1.1 Because they must reflect the University’s great concern for humane care and use of animals, the production and use of photographs or videotapes of animal research must be reviewed and approved PRIOR to production.
3.1.2 ACS staff members are not to be photographed or videotaped without their express permission.
3.2 Only the Principal Investigator/Study Director of an approved Animal Care and Use Protocol may request approval for making a visual record of animal research.
3.3 The PI/Study Director must make a request in writing, using FMACS106 Request to Photograph/Videotape Animal Research form. The request must include the following information:
3.3.1 Protocol number and PI/Study Director
3.3.2 Species
3.3.3 Format (photos, videotape)
3.3.4 Specific procedure(s) or facilities to be recorded
3.3.5 Assurance that the scenes recorded depict only appropriate procedures (i.e., the use of surgical garb if surgery is involved, the use of appropriate personal protective equipment, clean and orderly facilities and associated equipment, etc.)
3.3.6 Dates, times and location of recording. Clearly indicate if multiple recordings will be made.
3.3.7 Identity of the person(s) who will make the visual record
3.3.8 How the record is intended to be used, including audience, publications, etc.
3.4 The ACS Director or a designee reviews the request and assigns an ACS staff veterinarian to coordinate with the investigator.
3.4.1 The veterinarian’s responsibility is to ensure that scenes are appropriately sensitive to animal care and use issues.
3.4.2 Photography and videotaping of non-human primates, dogs, cats, and surgery or invasive procedures on any USDA-covered species may require an ACS staff veterinarian to be present during the sessions.
3.5 Photography or videotaping may proceed only after review and approval by the ACS Director or designee.
3.5.1 A copy of the approved request is filed by the Director’s secretary.
3.5.2 A copy of the approved request is also sent to the requesting PI.
3.6 Developing and Editing:
3.6.1 As “in-house” resources for developing conventional film photographs are not readily available, every effort will be made to utilize digital technology.
3.6.2 Digital files must be stored in a secure manner and should not be emailed.
3.6.3 Videos and photographs must be produced and edited with diligent attention to professional conduct and concern for animal welfare.
3.7 Storage:
3.7.1 Videos, photographs, digital storage devices, and audio recordings must be stored securely in a locked cabinet of sturdy construction. They should not be stored within the laboratory itself.
3.7.2 Access to the storage cabinet should be controlled and limited to authorized personnel only.
