Existing Protocols
The committee has authority to withdraw or suspend protocol approval in response to violations of the NIH Guidelines or UNL biosafety policies and procedures, including but not limited to:
- failure to maintain an existing approved protocol or;
- failure to complete required training or;
- failure to adhere to safety and containment design and principles.
In general, the PI is expected to implement corrective actions in a timely manner (upon notice of a deficiency). The AVCR may also administer additional consequences, up to and including suspension of access to research funds. Refer to the supplemental IBC policy on remediation of non-compliance with UNL Biosafety Guidelines for additional detail.
Reinstatement of Suspended Protocols
A suspended protocol can be reinstated when the following occurs:
- The violation has been addressed/corrected to the satisfaction of the IBC and AVCR and;
- The PI has submitted an explanation, in writing, to the IBC of his/her reasons for non-compliance with the UNL Biosafety Guidelines and actions taken to prevent reoccurrence.
The IBC will discuss reinstatement at the next meeting following completion of the items above and a decision will be made about
reinstating full approval of the protocol. The PI will receive a letter notifying him/her as to the IBC's decision.
Unapproved Work Activities
If it is discovered that a PI is conducting work activities for which he/she is not approved, the IBC or BSO on behalf of the committee will notify the PI and require immediate submittal of a biosafety protocol for review by the IBC and suspension of work activities if the activities are subject to review by the committee prior to initiation. The AVCR may also administer additional consequences, up to and including suspension of access to research funds. Refer to the supplemental IBC policy on remediation of non-compliance with UNL Biosafety Guidelines for additional detail.
Supplemental Policies