The Bovine Embryo (Collection, Production and Transfer) Regulations 1995

Regulation 5

SCHEDULE 1 CONDITIONS FOR THE APPROVAL OF BOVINE EMBRYO COLLECTION TEAMS FOR ALL PURPOSES INCLUDING INTRA-AREA TRADE

1.  In order to be given approval under regulation 5, each bovine embryo collection team must fulfil the requirements of this Schedule.

2.  The collection, processing and storage of bovine embryos must be carried out either by a collection team veterinarian or under his responsibility by one or more technicians who are competent and trained by the collection team veterinarian in methods and techniques of hygiene.

3.  The team must have at its disposal either a permanently sited laboratory or a mobile laboratory where bovine embryos can be examined, processed and packed, and which complies with paragraph 4 below in the case of a permanently sited laboratory or paragraph 5 below in the case of a mobile laboratory.

4.  In the case of a permanently sited laboratory, the team must have at its disposal—

(a) a work surface, a microscope and cryogenic equipment;

(b) a room where bovine embryos can be manipulated which is adjacent to but physically separate from the area used to handle the donor animals during collection;

(c) a room or area equipped for cleansing and sterilising instruments and equipment used in bovine embryo collection and manipulation; and

(d) where micromanipulation of the bovine embryo which involves penetration of the zona pellucida is to be carried out, suitable laminar-flow facilities.

5.—(1) In the case of a mobile laboratory the team must have at its disposal—

(a) a work surface, a microscope and cryogenic equipment; and

(b) a specially equipped part of the vehicle consisting of two separate sections, one for the examination and manipulation of bovine embryos which shall be a clean section, and the other for accommodating equipment and materials used in contact with the donor animals.

(2) A mobile laboratory shall always have contact with a permanently sited laboratory to ensure the sterilisation of its equipment and the provision of fluids and other products necessary for the collection and manipulation of bovine embryos.