The personnel requirements for a facility maintaining amphibians are not essentially different from those for other laboratory animal facilities. However, insofar as we know, except for The University of Michigan, no other institution routinely trains veterinarians in the care and management of amphibians as laboratory animals. This training results from collaboration between the Unit for Laboratory Medicine and the Amphibian Facility. Consequently, it is doubtful that the recommendations for personnel as given in the above Guide and calling for direction by veterinarians can be met at present. Until this situation changes it seems more realistic that direction of an amphibian facility should reside with a staff member experienced in amphibian biology and reproduction and who is advised by a veterinarian experienced in laboratory animal medicine.
Similar circumstances apply with respect to animal technologists.
Currently, no formal training or certification is available for animal technologists wishing to specialize in amphibian care. Although arrangements can be made for technical personnel to gain experience with amphibians at the Amphibian Facility of The University of Michigan, the availability of personnel trained there will remain limited for the immediate future. The need for insect as well as amphibian husbandry requires regular attention on weekends. In the absence of training that inculcates the concept of this requirement, weekend duties too frequently must be met by the operating managers. Physical Among the relatively few hazards in an amphibian facility, the greatest danger is posed by the extensive use of water and of electrical appliances in the same work areas.