The Jackson Laboratory has increased security measures in the wake of vandalism at Maine and California universities that practice animal experimentation and genetic engineering research. The security upgrade, implemented last week, had been planned a year ago, according to the lab. The primary focus of The Jackson Lab is genetic research on mice. The new security system was designed by Johnson Controls, a nationally renowned security company. Staff members are now required to wear identification photographs issued by the lab and carry coded cards to gain entry to most parts of the building.
Security officers stand at most doors.
We just don t want to take any chances. Peterson said the security upgrade was not in response to threats from animal rights activists. She noted the lab has, in the past, been questioned by animal rights advocates. There have been questions and inquiries about how we treat our animals. Last month, sportsmen s clubs in Wiscasset, Phippsburg and West Gardiner were vandalized, possibly by animal rights activists.