Making every employee aware of the importance of animal welfare is a key component of our Humane Care Initiative. Each new employee signs a Commitment to Humane Care after viewing the Introduction to Charles River training module and reading related material in the Employee Handbook. Staff with direct animal contact renew their commitment annually by re-signing this policy statement after viewing the Annual Animal Welfare Training.
At each of our facilities we have established a network of technicians, veterinaries, trainers, and animal care staff that act as Animal Welfare Specialists (AWS). They act as the liaison to the Executive Director of Animal Welfare and Training to help raise awareness regarding humane care of our animals and the commitment of Charles River to animal welfare. Together they represent the Animal Welfare Network (AWN) at Charles River.
We also reinforce humane care by rewarding excellence. Each year, Humane Care and Use Awards are presented to employees or teams that show extraordinary attentiveness and sensitivity to animal welfare or contribute to the refinement and enhancement of animal welfare.
We believe strongly in providing continuing education opportunities to our staff through retreats and workshops. These bring together employees from sites around the globe and reinforce our commitment to their development and to promoting best practices within the company and the industry.
Our core value, "Charles River is committed to the humane care of the research animals produced and used in all Charles River activities," is prominently displayed at each site. Humane care posters are created annually and are available to our customers. Preview our posters and order one today.
In addition, we provide further information to all of our employees through internal information channels such as our quarterly newsletter, intranet site, and yearly all-hands meetings.