Investing in staff development
The Moredun group currently employs over 200 individuals working in a variety of roles. As an organisation Moredun is committed to ensuring that it is able to provide a safe, secure and enjoyable working environment for those it employs, and constantly strives to improve current working practices to protect its most valued asset - its staff.
Investors in People
Moredun Research Institute was successful in retaining the coveted ‘Investors in People’ status in 2003. Moredun was the first Scottish Agricultural and Biological Research Institute to achieve IIP status in 1999 and this re-accreditation is indicative of the ongoing commitment shown by Moredun management in terms of training and development and the value placed in staff. At the most recent assessment the assessor found that “there is a total commitment by senior management to not only support the development of individuals within MRI but to seek ways to continually improve”. The assessor also found Moredun ‘a most open and friendly organisation keen to improve existing processes and practices in the support of all’ and also noted that ‘teamwork is particularly evident throughout the organisation’. A real commitment is made to flexible working through part time and reduced hours working agreements; sabbaticals are available to employees who wish to further their careers by training in a laboratory overseas or to spend some time with their family; and a flexi-time scheme is in place that assists employees in balancing their work with other aspects of their lives.
Supporting Staff Development
During 2003 Moredun supported the equivalent of 128 members of staff to attend 22 structured development courses accounting for 212 days of training. In-house training was ongoing and regular seminars and meetings were attended in-house and locally. Scientific contributions were made by 28 scientists at 23 meetings outside the UK and by 33 scientists at 28 meetings within the UK. Additionally, a study visit to Berne to study novel histopathological methods was supported from the training budget.
As an Institute internationally recognised for its work, Moredun is proud to attract visitors from both home and overseas to carry out work or studies. Honours students from local universities are attracted to undertake their projects at Moredun. Senior scientists willingly give their time to ensure these students get the most out of their placements. During 2003 MRI welcomed over 30 visitors from home and abroad, for visits lasting from a few days to several months.
Ensuring Employee Health
During 2003 the Moredun Group achieved the Bronze level award from the Scotland’s Health at Work (SHAW) initiative, promoted by the NHS. This is a national award scheme that rewards employers who demonstrate commitment to improving the health and ultimately the performance of their workforce. Being involved in this scheme benefits the organisation, the employee and Scotland. By providing information on a range of health topics and ensuring that staff are aware of the various sporting activities that take place within the organisation, a healthier workplace is provided and better relations are fostered with employees.
Health and Safety at Moredun continues to be of paramount importance and the safety committee and safety officers continually strive to ensure better and safer working practices. One area of concern has been the possible exposure of HSU staff and scientists to laboratory animal allergens. As part of the strategy to control exposure, all staff from the HSU and the farms have been tested for lung function. Two members of staff have been trained to carry out “fit testing” of tight fitting masks and the HSU staff are tested to ensure that they are wearing the correct mask when required.
Quality Systems
Moredun’s vision is to remain one of the most highly regarded livestock disease research laboratories in the world. One of the ways Moredun Research Institute intends to maintain and enhance this leading position is through its commitment to a Quality Management System that reflects the requirements of the International Standard ISO 9001:2000 and the Joint Code Of Practice For Research.
The Quality System provides assurance that the expectations, needs and requirements of both Moredun Research Institute and its customers are fulfilled. It further ensures that the necessary controls are consistently and adequately applied to meet them. It defines how effective control is established through documented procedures, and provides a record of quality-related activities.