The animal welfare structure
Since February 2013 and the introduction of the new legislation for the protection of animals used for scientific purposes (2010/63/EU), we heard more and more about the Animal Welfare Structure (AWBS). This structure is now an obligation in research institutions that use animals in the conduct of projects.
The structure acts on a daily basis by advising researchers and caretakers by constantly putting the animal and its well-being at the heart of its concerns.
| The 5 main missions are: 1) To advise the staff who take care of the animals on matters relating to their welfare. 2) To advise staff on the application of the 3Rs in animal experimentation (replacement, reduction, refinement) as far as possible. 3) Establish and review the internal operational processes for monitoring, reporting and follow-up with regard to the welfare of the establishment's animals. 4) Monitor the progress and results of scientific projects, taking into account the effects on animals, identifying and advising on the elements that contribute to compliance with the 3Rs rule. 5) To provide advice on animal placement programmes |
The 5 main missions are:
1) To advise the staff who take care of the animals on matters relating to their welfare.
2) To advise staff on the application of the 3Rs in animal experimentation (replacement, reduction, refinement) as far as possible.
3) Establish and review the internal operational processes for monitoring, reporting and follow-up with regard to the welfare of the establishment's animals.
(4) Monitor the progress and results of scientific projects, taking into account the effects on animals, identifying and advising on the elements that contribute to compliance with the 3Rs rule.
5) To provide advice on animal placement programmes
To do this, the structure works closely with the service team of the animal experimentation platform (animal handlers, technicians, engineers and veterinarians). It gives advice on animal housing, enrichment of the living environment and socialization and training activities. It also contributes to staff training.
On the research side, the structure assists and supports the designer in carrying out procedures to promote their refinement as well as the reduction of the number of animals involved and their replacement when possible. SBEA also assists in the regulatory procedures for obtaining the authorization of projects by the Ministry of Research.
In its work, the SBEA also collaborates with the IRSEA's ethics committee; this is essential in order to better respond to both scientific and animal welfare issues within the establishment.
Assessments and meetings are regularly held to improve animal welfare.
The IRSEA and the CECBA work together to make the lives of our animal partners more compatible with their physiological, psychological and behavioral needs on a daily basis. The IRSEA, an establishment approved at European level for specialization in animal welfare sciences, ethics and legislation, and veterinarians, takes particular care in this area.
