What are Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)?
- SOPs provide detailed, step-by-step descriptions/instructions of how to use equipment found in animal facilities or how to perform certain experimental techniques and husbandry procedures
- There are 3 types of SOPs: Institutional, Laboratory-Specific, and Local (Facility).
How do they apply to me?
- If you perform animal research, you need to follow the SOPs listed on the Animal Use Protocols that you are on
- By following the SOPs, the University of Toronto is able to keep our certificate of Good Animal Practice from the Canadian Council on Animal Care
Where can I find the SOPs?
- Institutional
- If you are a student/technician/researcher, ask your supervisor to forward relevant SOPs from the The Division of the Vice-President, Research & Innovation’s (VPRI’s) website.
- If you are a supervisor/principal investigator, you can access the SOPs through the VPRI website.
- Laboratory-Specific
- If you are a student/technician/researcher, ask your supervisor or lab manager to forward relevant laboratory SOPs.
- Laboratory groups are expected to keep their own SOPs up-to-date.
- Local (Facility)
- BSF Local Standard Working Instructions (SWIs), manuals, and guides for a plethora of topics including microscopy, equipment usage, automation, and tissue slicing/processing can be found below.
- New files and resources will become available as they are procured or created. If you experience access difficulties, contact bsf@utoronto.ca
NOTE: SOPs are regularly reviewed and updated! Ensure you have access to the latest version of relevant SOPs!