To assist you in planning a laboratory tour, we have prepared some basic guidelines with input from the Foundation for Biomedical Research (FBR). To help ensure a smooth event, it is important to consult with your public affairs people who deal with the public and the media on a regular basis.

1. Obtain permission from administration/department chairs. Because many institutions have serious concerns about allowing outside parties into laboratories, it is essential that you clear your plans through the proper channels. Your institution may have a policy prohibiting lab tours.

2. Implement institutional Task Force. The Task Force should assess and clarify the benefits and risks of a tour. The Task Force should include representatives from public affairs, security, government relations, veterinary care, and administration.

3. Carefully choose the laboratories. In an effort to make this program successful, great thought must be given to the public's perception of the research being conducted in the chosen laboratory. Of primary importance is the reaction to the animal models involved.

4. Limit exposure to animal models. Experience has shown that the public is extremely sensitive to the use of primates, dogs, and cats. Use of these animals in a protocol should not automatically warrant exclusion from the tour; however, serious consideration should be given to the public's sensitivity. Careful scrutiny by the task force should be undertaken on a case-by-case basis. Any project involving infant animal models is also extremely sensitive in the eyes of the public and, therefore, not recommended. Invasive research, regardless of the animal model, can easily be misunderstood, even with a thoughtful spokesperson and compelling justification for the research.

5. Designate and train spokespersons. Before any tour should be considered, careful thought needs to be given to who will conduct the tour. The spokesperson needs to be very familiar with the research being conducted, able to answer questions eloquently and succinctly - especially concerning animal care.

6. Limit the areas to be toured. Clear definition should be given concerning the areas to be open for the tour. Under no circumstances should anyone be allowed to stray from the designated tour area. Laboratory personnel should be vigilant in their efforts to secure sensitive material and protect their animal models.

7. Conduct a practice tour. A trial run (at least 48 hours before the public is due to arrive) is extremely beneficial. Representatives from public affairs, veterinary care and security should be involved in this mock tour. Also enlist the participation of other personnel not familiar with research. Their reaction to the research being conducted will be a strong indication of how the public will react. If a particular project elicits adverse reactions during the mock tour, strong consideration should be given to removing this project from the tour.