Working in Organs Tissues and Cells

If the UK leaves the EU without any deal on 29 March 2019 (may also apply to new exit date on 31 December 2020), the UK can still import and export organs, tissues and cells from and to EU countries.

If you’re a UK licensed establishment working with organs, tissues and cells, such as hospitals, stem cell laboratories, tissue banks and fertility clinics you will continue to work to the same quality and safety standards as before exiting the EU. However, some UK establishments will need new written agreements with relevant EU establishments.

How processes will change

Tissues and cells for human use, including reproductive cells

If you’re a UK licensed establishment that imports or exports tissues or cells from the European Economic Area (EEA) establishments you will need to make written agreements with those EEA establishments to continue importing or exporting these products post-exit, under a ‘no deal’ scenario.

If you’re a UK licensed establishment that already holds an import licence to import tissues and cells from third countries you can use your existing written agreements with third country organisations as a template.

Organs for transplantation

NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is the organisation responsible for organ donation and transplantation in the UK. It is working with the UK regulator for organs, the Human Tissue Authority (HTA), to ensure that appropriate written agreements are in place with EU organisations to allow organ exchange to continue post-exit.

Transplant centres do not need to take any further action.

Actions you can take now

1. Consider any changes you may need to make to adapt to new processes and systems.
2. The passport rules for travel to most countries in Europe will change if the UK leaves the EU on 29 March 2019 (may also apply to new exit date on 31 December 2020) without a deal. Read the government’s guidance on Travelling to the EU with a UK passport if there’s no Brexit deal and, if relevant, ensure your employees and customers are aware of the potential changes.
3. Stay up-to-date with these changes by registering for email alerts. Follow the link, add your email address, select ‘Submit’, select ‘Add subscription’ and choose ‘EU Exit’ then select ‘Submit’.