The BUAV welcomes the fact that the Department for the Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has this week published guidance on how to avoid animal testing for REACH.

The BUAV has been raising the issue of the dire animal testing implications of REACH with DEFRA for some time. DEFRA has now issued a note aimed at reminding industry that they have obligations in terms of animal welfare when preparing their registrations. The guidance reiterates the key principles of both REACH and EU animal testing laws. It states that; “REACH is clear that animal tests must only be used as a last resort, when no suitable non-animal alternative tests are available.” It encourages industry to use alternatives such as QSARs, read across and in vitro techniques including the new skin irritation methods now available and it warns companies not to perform duplicative animal testing.

Dr Katy Taylor says, “We have been in dialogue with DEFRA on this issue for some time and so we are delighted to see they are helping to spread the word about avoiding animal testing. We look forward to seeing more explicit guidance from the competent authority (the Health and Safety Executive) later this month. “

Download the Department for the Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) guidance