Step 1. Compliance

Prerequisites for Access to the Laboratory Animal Facility (LAF)

In accordance with Hong Kong legislation and University requirements, researchers must fulfil the following compliance obligations before requesting access to LAF. It is the researcher’s responsibility to ensure that all approvals and documentation remain current and valid.

1. Animal License Application

(Department of Health, HKSAR Government)

Researchers conducting animal experiments in Hong Kong must hold a valid animal license issued under the Animals (Control of Experiments) Ordinance (Cap. 340).

Required steps:

Important notes:

  • Researchers are responsible for ensuring that all animal work remains compliant at all times with applicable legislation and institutional requirements.
  • If animal procedures are to continue beyond the validity period of an existing license, a new licence must be obtained before the current license expires. Researchers are strongly advised to submit applications for license renewal at least eight (8) weeks prior to the expiry date.
  • Researchers are also strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Department of Health Compliance Audit requirements to ensure ongoing adherence to regulatory standards.

2. Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) Protocol Approval

(Animal Ethics Committee, VPRDO, HKUST)

All animal work conducted at HKUST must be covered by an AEC‑approved Animal Experiment Protocol (AEP), as required by the Hong Kong Government.

Key requirements:

  • An approved AEP must be in place before commencing any animal work
  • All procedures, materials, and drugs used must strictly adhere to the approved AEP
  • Any proposed changes to procedures or materials must be submitted as an AEP amendment and receive AEC approval before implementation
    • Exceptions may be granted only with special approval from the Attending Veterinarian

Submission process:

  • The Principal Investigator must submit the protocol via Tick@Lab for VPRDO review
  • Refer to the AEC guidelines for detailed instructions
  • Enquiries regarding AEC protocols may be directed to crphelpdesk@ust.hk. Tutorials on the use of tick@lab are also available for reference.

AEC will notify users once the protocol has been approved.

3. Medical Surveillance

(Health, Safety & Environment Office, HKUST)

All personnel working with laboratory animals must participate in the University’s medical surveillance programme.

Required steps:

Important Reminder

It is the researcher’s responsibility to ensure that all licenses, approvals, and medical documents remain valid and up to date throughout the duration of their animal work.