Bioresearch & Veterinary Services

Home Office Guidance

Information on Home Office rules, regulations and compliance.

The Animal (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986

This Act regulates the use of protected animals in any experimental or other scientific procedure which may cause pain, suffering, distress or lasting harm to the animal.

Protected animals under the Act are any living vertebrate other than man and any living cephalopod. 

 

Before any regulated procedures on animals are permitted, three licences are required by the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986:

  • an Establishment Licence (PEL) for the place at which the work is carried out. The University of Edinburgh holds a PEL. 
  • an authorised Project Licence (PPL) for the programme of work
  • a Personal Licence (PIL) authorising the individual to apply a certain type of procedure to a particular species

 

Project Licence Information (secured)

Project licence training requirements, application processes, amendments and return of procedures

Personal Licence Information (secured)

Information on how to apply for or amend a Personal Licence.

Animal Research work abroad: information for researchers (secured)

Important information for University of Edinburgh researchers who are planning work abroad involving animals

BVS Annual Refresher Presentations (secured)

Information on annual refresher training for licence holders

GA Appendices (secured)

Information on required GA Appendices and responsibilities.