Animal research - step by step
This is a flowchart showing important steps in animal research
Main content
Laws and regulations for Animal Studies
Animal research is strictly regulated to ensure ethical treatment and scientific integrity. At the University of Bergen, all studies involving animals must comply with national laws, EU directives, and institutional guidelines. These regulations cover everything from planning and approval to housing, care, and experimental procedures. Understanding and following these rules is essential for responsible research and animal welfare.
Relevant Laws, Regulations, and Guidelines
Animal Welfare Act (Lov om dyrevelferd)Applies to all issues affecting the welfare of vertebrates, cephalopods, cyclostomata, decapods, and honey bees.Section §13 specifically covers animals used in research, education, and medical testing.
Regulation on the Use of Animals in Research (Forskrift om bruk av dyr i forsøk)Applies specifically to the use of animals in research, education, and testing.
These regulations ensure ethical treatment and proper care of animals in all scientific activities. Compliance is mandatory for anyone conducting animal studies.
What Does the Regulation Cover?
Issues covered by the Norwegian Regulation on the use of Animals in Research
Scope of the regulation- § 1
- Area of application - §§ 2, 3
- Definitions - § 4
- Approvals of institutions for animal experiments- §§ 5, 12
- Approval and Application of animal experiments - §§ 6, 7
- Project summary - § 8
- Compliance with the principles of the 3Rs - § 9
- Purpose of the study - § 10
- Methods, test strategies and endpoints - §11
- Ban of certain experiments - § 13
- Anesthesia and analgesia - § 14
- Termination of experiments - § 15
- Euthanasia and killing - § 16
- Reuse of animals - § 17
- Rehoming of animals - § 18
- Endangered species - § 19
- Primates - § 20
- Animal bred for purpose - §22
- Stray animals of domestic species - § 23
- Demands to competence - § 24
- Named persons with special responsibility for oversight - § 25
- Animal welfare body - § 26
- Named veterinarian or fish health specialist - § 27
- Responsibility of primary investigator - § 28
- Housing and care - § 28
- The physical plant and equipment - § 30
- Recordkeeping - § 31
- Records for dogs, cats and primates - § 32
- Marking of dogs, cats and primates - § 33
- Breeding plan for primates - §34
- Documentation - § 35
- Annual report - § 36
- Administrative issues - §§ 37-41
Standards for Animal Use in Research and Education
Ethical norms for using animals in research, education, and testing are largely reflected in the Regulation on the Use of Animals in Research, but they go beyond legal requirements. These standards emphasize responsible and humane practices, including:
Compliance with the 3Rs
- Replacement – Use alternatives to animals whenever possible.
- Reduction – Minimize the number of animals used without compromising scientific validity.
- Refinement – Improve procedures to reduce pain, stress, and suffering.
Systematic Literature SearchEnsure that existing knowledge is reviewed to avoid unnecessary animal use.
Robust Experimental DesignPlan studies to provide reliable results and maximize information gained per animal.
Transparent ReportingFollow ARRIVE guidelines for accurate and complete reporting of animal research.
Law on Research Ethics
Norwegian law on research ethics requires that:
- Researchers must act with care to ensure all research is conducted in accordance with recognized ethical standards.
- This responsibility applies to every stage of research—including planning, conducting, reporting, and all related activities.
These principles safeguard integrity, transparency, and trust in research.