Biosafety Testing Services
Regulatory-compliant biosafety testing services for biopharmaceutical and animal health products.
Veterinary Surveillance Unit
Veterinary Surveillance Unit
Specialist veterinary diagnostic and research laboratory
The Veterinary Surveillance Unit (VSU) provides disease surveillance and supports the control of endemic disease in domestic livestock and wildlife.
Quick start
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1Find the right testSearch by disease, pathogen or speciesGo to test search →
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2Check the price listReview current commercial test prices before submitting your samples.View price list →
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3Complete the online submissionProvide information about your sample(s).Go to submission form →
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4Package & ship (UN3373)Follow simple Category B packaging guidance and send to the VSU.Go to packaging & shipping →
Find the right test
Use the search and filter below to find the right test for you. Can’t see the test you need or you’re unsure which test to select then please do contact us – we are happy to discuss additional or unlisted testing options.
Submit a sample
Use the form below to notify the lab before shipping your sample. If you prefer, you can also download and complete our sample submission form (Word document).
Packaging and shipping
All diagnostic samples must be packaged in accordance with UN3373 Category B regulations:
- Leak-proof primary container
- Leak-proof secondary packaging
- Absorbent material
- Rigid outer packaging
- UN3373 diamond label displayed
Shipping address
FAO Veterinary Surveillance Unit,
Moredun Research Institute,
Pentlands Science Park,
Bush Loan
Penicuik EH26 0PZ
Moredun Research Institute,
Pentlands Science Park,
Bush Loan
Penicuik EH26 0PZ
Why use the Veterinary Surveillance Unit?
- The Veterinary Surveillance Unit provides specialist diagnostic and surveillance testing for livestock viruses.
- We support: clinical diagnosis; surveillance programmes; export certification; research and validation activities
- Based in Scotland, we operate within a regulated laboratory environment with defined testing schedules and quality assurance processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sample type do I need?
Use the test directory to check the recommended sample type for each test. This may include blood, swabs, faeces, tissue, fluid or other materials. Please read the test entry carefully before collecting samples, as unsuitable sample types can delay testing or make analysis impossible. If you are unsure what to submit, contact the Veterinary Surveillance Unit before collection.
How long will results take?
Turnaround times vary depending on the test requested, sample quality and current laboratory workload. Many routine tests are processed within the standard turnaround shown in the directory. More specialist or referral testing may take longer. If timings are important, please contact the Unit before submission.
Can I submit more than one sample?
Yes. The online form allows multiple samples to be submitted in one request. Please ensure each sample has a unique identifier and that all sample containers are clearly labelled to match the details entered on the form.
What if the test I need is not listed?
If you cannot find the test you need in the directory, please contact the Veterinary Surveillance Unit before submission. We may still be able to advise, discuss alternative options or confirm whether additional testing is available.
What if my species or sample type is not listed?
If the relevant species or sample type is not shown on the form, please contact the Veterinary Surveillance Unit before sending samples. We can advise on suitability, alternative options or the best route for submission.
How do I package and send samples?
Samples should be packaged securely in suitable leak-proof containers and sent in accordance with UN3373 Category B requirements where applicable. Use sufficient absorbent material, appropriate outer packaging and clear labelling. After submission, attach your reference label to the package and clearly identify each sample.
Do I need to print anything?
After submitting the form, you will receive a confirmation email containing your reference number and submission label. Attach the label to your package and ensure each sample container is clearly identified before dispatch.
When should I contact the Unit before submission?
Please contact the Veterinary Surveillance Unit before submitting if the test is not listed, the case is urgent, you are sending a large number of samples, you are unsure which sample type to collect, or the submission involves unusual, specialist or high-risk material. Early contact helps avoid delays.
Contact the Veterinary Surveillance Unit
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