Animal research

We have a range of indicators in place that support our drive for continuous improvement.  In previous years, these have centred on Site Improvement Plans at each of our animal research sites. However, following a cross territorial task force review in 2007 of the way in which we manage our animal research worldwide, we developed and introduced in 2008 a Global Improvement Plan to support a more consistent approach across our research activity.  

The Global Improvement Plan provides a common framework for our business regions to use to develop individual improvement plans that are specific to their geographies and research activity. These Regional Improvement Plans will now drive continuous improvement at both a regional and site level.

In line with our Bioethics Policy, the Global Improvement framework focuses on four key areas: the 3Rs, scientific best practice, standards of care and welfare, and governance and management. The framework requires the development of regional objectives and measures that address these areas, such as improved animal housing conditions, less stressful or less invasive research techniques, and improved research study design leading to reduced animal use. Each region must demonstrate progress against the objectives in their plan each year and all plans will be reviewed annually and updated where necessary.  

The Global Plan was introduced in our major regions of North American, Sweden and the UK in 2008 and rollout to our Asia Pacific region will take place in 2009.

We have updated our CR Priority Action Plan to reflect these changes.

The content of this page was externally assured by Bureau Veritas, February 2009