UCLA is continuously working to maintain full accreditation of its animal care and use program by the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International (AAALAC). AAALAC is a non-profit organization established by scientific and educational organizations to ensure high standards of laboratory animal care and use. The accreditation process involves periodic inspections in which the animal program and facilities are evaluated for compliance with the requirements and recommendations of PHS Policy, the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, and USDA Animal Welfare Act Regulations. UCLA has maintained continuous AAALAC accreditation since 1976.