CO2 Protocol, Flow Meter Changes Coming Soon

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recently changed its standards for Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) flow rate(s) for euthanasia in rodents.

The Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine (ULAM) will begin working with laboratories in mid-June to ensure that flow rates on euthanasia stations in all facilities are updated to reflect the changes.

To help reduce the administrative burden that these updates may have on laboratories, the Animal Care & Use Office (ACUO) is introducing a minor change in the eResearch Animal Management (eRAM) system. Specifically:

• Protocol details on CO₂ usage will be updated to reflect less detail (e.g., the listing of specific CO₂ dosage percentages)
• Changes will be initiated by the ACUO as a protocol amendment to all applicable protocols

Please note that the ACUO will enact these changes on your behalf; you are NOT required to take any action.

We wanted you to be aware of these changes now in the event that you begin to receive email notification(s) from eRAM about these specific types of protocol amendments.

Questions or Concerns?

Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact your Research Compliance Associate directly.