Applying for an SOP

SOPs are mandatory for routine tasks to ensure consistency, repeatability, and high standards of animal welfare. They must be developed in accordance with the NAEAC Good Practice Guide and the Animal Welfare Act 1999.

Before writing, you must read the guide: Writing Effective SOPs for Animal Use. This guide outlines the legal requirements, formatting standards, and governance roles required for all University SOPs.

You must use the mandatory official SOP template.

Prior to submission, you must discuss your draft with the animal welfare officer (AWO) or University veterinarian. This ensures the procedure creates minimal animal impact and does not duplicate existing SOPs.

Once the SOP is drafted and reviewed by relevant staff:

• Submit it for consideration using the Infonetica Ethics RM system.
• For new SOPs, attach a digital copy (Word or PDF).
• For amendments: You must upload two versions: one with "Track Changes" visible (showing edits) and a clean, final PDF version.

Deadlines: Applications must be submitted by the relevant submission deadline to be considered at the next Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) meeting.

Important: You must complete the required consultation with the AWO or University veterinarian before submitting your application.

• Outcome: A letter will be sent to the SOP owner outlining the AEC's decision and any required provisions.
• Validity: SOPs are approved for a maximum of three years.
• Maintenance: SOP owners (PIs and facility managers) must review their SOPs regularly. If changes are needed before the three-year expiry, an amendment must be submitted to the AEC.

Training requirement: Any person working with animals at the University of Auckland must be trained to perform study-related manipulations competently and must be familiar with all relevant SOPs.

Animal welfare officer
Email: awo@auckland.ac.nz

Animal Ethics Committee
Email: animalethics@auckland.ac.nz