What document mandates the development of a disaster plan in an animal facility?

The Guide, formally known as the "Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals," plays a pivotal role in establishing standards for animal care and use in research facilities. Among various topics, it emphasizes the necessity for facilities to maintain a comprehensive disaster plan. This plan is an essential component to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals in the event of unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters, accidents, or other emergencies that could jeopardize their health or the integrity of the research.

The Guide outlines recommendations and requirements for the care and management of laboratory animals, which include planning for emergency situations. It holds significant authority in the field, being widely referenced as a crucial resource in compliance with ethical and regulatory standards in animal research.

While other documents such as the Animal Welfare Act and guidelines from the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee or the NIH provide important regulations and frameworks for animal research, they do not specifically mandate the creation of a disaster plan in the same way that The Guide does. Therefore, The Guide stands out as the key document driving the need for disaster preparedness in animal facilities.