Laboratory Animal Caretaker Onboarding Checklist

Laboratory Animal Caretaker Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Laboratory Animal Caretaker starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Animal Care onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Laboratory Animal Caretaker, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Laboratory Animal Caretaker onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Laboratory Animal Caretaker Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The new laboratory animal caretaker should undergo a comprehensive orientation program to familiarize themselves with the company’s policies, procedures, and safety protocols. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated trainer.

2. Facility Tour: A thorough tour of the animal care facility is essential to help the new caretaker understand the layout, equipment, and specific areas where animals are housed. This task is usually performed by a senior caretaker or supervisor.

3. Introduction to Animal Species: The new caretaker should receive training on the different animal species they will be working with, including their specific needs, behaviors, and handling techniques. This task is typically performed by experienced caretakers or a designated trainer.

4. Animal Husbandry Training: The new caretaker should receive training on basic animal husbandry tasks such as feeding, watering, cleaning cages, and maintaining proper hygiene. This task is usually performed by experienced caretakers or a designated trainer.

5. Health and Safety Training: It is crucial for the new caretaker to receive training on health and safety protocols, including the proper use of personal protective equipment, handling hazardous substances, and emergency procedures. This task is typically performed by the facility’s safety officer or a designated trainer.

6. Animal Handling Techniques: The new caretaker should be trained in safe and effective animal handling techniques to minimize stress and ensure the well-being of the animals. This task is usually performed by experienced caretakers or a designated trainer.

7. Record-Keeping Training: The new caretaker should receive training on how to accurately and consistently maintain records related to animal care, including feeding schedules, health observations, and any treatments administered. This task is typically performed by a senior caretaker or supervisor.

8. Equipment Familiarization: The new caretaker should be introduced to the various equipment used in the facility, such as cage washers, autoclaves, and environmental control systems. They should receive training on how to operate and maintain these equipment properly. This task is usually performed by a facility technician or a designated trainer.

9. Animal Welfare Regulations: The new caretaker should be educated on the relevant animal welfare regulations and guidelines that govern the industry, ensuring compliance with ethical standards and legal requirements. This task is typically performed by a senior caretaker or supervisor, or a designated trainer.

10. Team Collaboration: The new caretaker should be introduced to their colleagues and encouraged to participate in team meetings and activities. Building relationships and fostering a collaborative work environment is essential for effective animal care. This task is typically facilitated by the supervisor or team leader.

11. Ongoing Training and Development: The new caretaker should be informed about the company’s commitment to ongoing training and professional development opportunities. This may include attending workshops, conferences, or pursuing certifications related to laboratory animal care. The responsibility for organizing and facilitating these opportunities may lie with the human resources department or a designated training coordinator.

12. Performance Evaluation: The new caretaker should be informed about the company’s performance evaluation process, including the criteria used, frequency of evaluations, and any performance improvement plans that may be implemented. This task is typically performed by the supervisor or manager, in collaboration with the human resources department.

13. Mentorship Program: The new caretaker may be assigned a mentor, an experienced caretaker who can provide guidance, support, and answer any questions they may have during their initial period with the company. This task is typically coordinated by the supervisor or human resources department.

14. Introduction to Research Projects: If the laboratory animal caretaker will be involved in supporting research projects, they should be introduced to the ongoing projects, their objectives, and the specific role they will play in assisting the researchers. This task is typically performed by the research team leader or principal investigator.

15. Continuous Improvement Initiatives: The new caretaker should be made aware of any ongoing initiatives or programs aimed at improving animal care practices, such as implementing new technologies, refining protocols, or participating in research collaborations. This task is typically communicated by the supervisor or facility manager

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Laboratory Animal Caretaker checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Laboratory Animal Caretaker up to speed and working well in your Animal Care team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.