Safety, compliance, and ethics
In the Office of Research, the Assurances team fosters responsible research practices through presidential committees as well as guidance and oversight of research, exports, and hazardous materials.
Presidential Committees
Our team oversees presidential committees that hold Washington State University research practices to the highest standards of ethics and safety. The following committees ensure that research complies with federal and state regulations, as well as University policy.
Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)
The IACUC ensures that all vertebrate animals involved in teaching or research receive ethical and humane care and treatment at WSU.
Supported by the Animal Welfare Program (AWP)
Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC)
The IBC oversees the safe use and handling of potentially biohazardous materials at WSU.
Supported by the Biosafety Program
Institutional Review Board (IRB)
The IRB/HRPP protects the rights and welfare of human research subjects at WSU.
Supported by the Human Research Protection Program (HRPP)
Radiation Safety Committee (RSC)
The RSC ensures the safe use of radioactive materials and radiation-emitting devices at WSU.
Supported by the Radiation Safety Program
Exports and Hazardous Materials Shipping
Additionally, we provide guidance and support for the distribution of information and materials:
Export Controls
International research activities must comply with regulations governing the transfer of controlled items or information to foreign nationals or entities.
Hazardous Materials and Dangerous Goods Shipping
WSU’s trained shippers ensure that all hazardous materials or dangerous goods comply with applicable regulations.
