EMMA procedures - Ethical and safety aspects
The EMMA repository, by definition, involves the handling of genetically manipulated organisms. Although the repository will store and distribute these mice it will not create them.
All animal work within the repository will be conducted in strict accord with the established rules and procedures of the host nation. Each laboratory that contributes animals to the repository, or receives them from it, must ensure that the European Directive 86/609/EEC and all relevant national and European rules and regulations, are complied with. Accordingly, the repository will seek appropriate assurances from all those who contribute animals to it, or receive animals from it, but EMMA cannot be held responsible for the conduct of national laboratories over which it has no control.
The regulation 93/88/EEC of 12 October 1993, amending Directive 90/679/EEC on the protection of workers from risks related to exposure to biological agents at work will be enforced.
Agreement by the local Ethical Committee, when applicable, has been obtained for these aspects, and the declaration of Helsinki will be enforced by the scientists in charge.
To support EMMA's commitment to establishing the highest possible animal welfare standards the EMMA Advisory Board (AVB) also includes an expert in animal welfare and ethics.
More information on EMMA procedures: costs - legal restrictions - health monitoring