- 1. Overview of OLAC Services
OLAC supports ethical and compliant animal research by providing:
- Animal ordering & management: Guidance and tools for selecting, ordering, and tracking laboratory animals.
- Training & certification: Required modules and hands-on instruction.
- Veterinary consultation: In-house veterinarians for animal health and protocol questions.
- Facility access & scheduling: Secure, scheduled access to animal facilities and specialized rooms.
- 2. Getting Started
- Visit the OLAC PI Resources page.
- Log in with your Calnet ID to access all online forms and resources.
- 3. Ordering Animals
- Set Up Your OLAC Account
- Complete the Recharge Account Application.
- Gain Access to the Animal Ordering Tool (Cayuse)
- Ensure your name appears on the approved protocol.
- The PI must email olacit@berkeley.edu to authorize your ordering privileges.
- Access the OLAC Animal Ordering System.
- Step-by-Step instructions: How to Order Animals in Cayuse.
- Monitor Your Order
- Track order status and delivery updates in your Cayuse portal.
- For urgent requests or changes, contact the OLAC Animal Buyer directly (see Help & Resources).
- Set Up Your OLAC Account
- 4. Facility Access & Room Scheduling
Facility Orientation
- Schedule a walkthrough to review safety and hygiene protocols.
Access Request
- Submit the facility access request form.
- Tip: Allow 3-5 business days for processing.
Room Booking
- Use the OLAC Meeting Room Booking System to reserve procedure rooms
- Confirm availability and observe all posted time limits.
- 5. Veterinary Support
- Request consultations using the Research Services Request Form .
- Report animal health concerns immediately.
- Access treatment records and recommendations via the online portal.
- Emergency after-hours: Call “3-VETS” (510) 643-8387
- 6. Compliance & Reporting
- Maintain accurate records of all animal use.
- Submit annual protocol renewals and amendments on time.
- Report adverse events or unexpected outcomes promptly.
- Report to OLAC or ACUC anyone who is no longer with the lab
- 7. Help & Resources
Key Contacts:
- OLAC Help Desk: olacit@berkeley.edu and olac@berkeley.edu
- ACUC Office: acuc@berkeley.edu
- OLAC Trainer: olactrainer@berkeley.edu
- Full OLAC Directory: olac.berkeley.edu/olac-directory
Resources:
- 8. Tips for Success
- Keep training up to date - set calendar reminders for renewals.
- Communicate proactively with OLAC and ACUC staff.
- Use the portal dashboard to stay organized with tasks and deadlines.
- Subscribe to your lab’s listservs for important updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How long does it take to get facility access?
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days after submitting your Card Key access form.
- Who do I contact for after-hours animal emergencies?
Call “3-VETS” (510) 643-8387 or refer to the OLAC Directory for additional emergency contacts.
- What training does OLAC require before handling animals?
E H & S 205, Facility Orientation, and Euthanasia
For questions or additional support, always reach out to the OLAC Help Desk at olacit@berkeley.edu
Welcome again to OLAC! We look forward to supporting your research.
All links and contact info are current as of September 2025. Please check the OLAC website for the latest updates.