Accredited clinical research organisations (CROs) have a re-evaluation every three years, which includes a “an extensive internal review” and on-site inspection.
Particular points of merit on the AAALAC accreditation letter include “excellent husbandry,” a well-managed veterinary care program, and “comprehensive environmental enrichment.”
For example, the 30,000 sq ft Toxicology facility in Gaithersburg, Maryland, includes more than 35 animal rooms with automated environmental systems.
The AAALAC endorses modifications such as this as a good practice for animal welfare to minimise risk of accidents.
Smithers Avanza, part of the Smithers Group Inc, specialises in clinical outsourcing for toxicological studies, including vaccine safety testing and developmental and reproductive toxicology (DART).