Asahi Intecc Group Animal Experimentation Policy

Respect for Bioethics in Research and Development Activities

The Asahi Intecc Group (hereinafter referred to as “Asahi Intecc”) strives to contribute widely to society by continuously providing to the world our “Only One” technologies and “Number One” products in the medical and industrial equipment fields, bearing safety and reliability in mind.

Based on this philosophy, we conduct research and development activities for medical devices with respect for bioethics; however, in the course of development, animal experiments may become necessary in order to confirm the safety and effectiveness of medical devices, to comply with regulatory requirements, and to enhance the safety and health of patients.

Asahi Intecc does not possess animal experimentation facilities within the group, and when necessary, such experiments are entrusted to external institutions. Prior to entrustment, we confirm that the institutions have established an implementation system based on relevant laws and guidelines, from the perspective of animal welfare and protection, as well as from the perspective of ensuring the safety of researchers who conduct animal experiments.

In addition, in accordance with applicable laws and guidelines concerning the protection of animals, the breeding and use of laboratory animals, and the alleviation of their pain, we have established an internal Ethics Review Committee. This Committee rigorously reviews all animal experiments planned by Asahi Intecc to ensure conformity with the 3Rs Principles—Replacement (use of alternatives), Reduction (minimization of the number of animals used), and Refinement (alleviation of pain and distress through improved methods)—and to confirm that all experimental plans are ethically and scientifically justified.