Working standards

Follow the links below to access information on a range of topics associated with Cefas working standards and our reputation:

Access to information: Cefas aims to work openly, honestly and with integrity, sharing information with our stakeholders and increasing public understanding of science. We try to make as much information available as possible on our website.
Cefas charter: An overview of our purpose and standards of service we provide.
Cefas framework document: This Framework Document defines Cefas’ role and responsibilities in delivering key aspects of Defra's and wider Government's objectives. It also outlines its work and constitution as a specialist science agency within the Defra family. It provides a definitive guide for the staff and managers in Cefas, and for all who interact with the agency.
Public service guarantee on data handling: Information on the standards used when personal information is supplied to Cefas.
Sustainable development action plan: Cefas is committed to sustainable development. It is integral to the way we work, as demonstrated through our company policies, our operations and our commitment to both staff and the wider community.
Environmental policy: We believe that good environmental practice is an integral part of our business and we apply an environmental management system to pursue continual improvement in environmental performance.
Health and safety policy: Cefas is committed to a system of health and safety management based on a common understanding of risks and how to control them. It recognises that health and safety is a management responsibility of equal importance to the Cefas’ work and that effective control of health and safety is achieved through co-operative effort at all levels within the organisation.
Joint Equality Scheme: Diversity and equality are an integral part of how Cefas works, both as an employer and as a business. The Joint Equality Scheme demonstrates that Cefas is committed to diversity and equality issues by integrating environmental, social and economic objectives to improve the current and future quality of life for everyone.
Quality: Cefas is committed to providing good quality practice and we are accredited or hold certification in a number of laboratory areas. Microbiology, Fish Health Services and Radiological laboratories hold UKAS accreditation to IS0 17025. Safety testing of Veterinary medicines is certified to GLP, and Fish Health Inspectors hold UKAS accreditation to ISO 17020. The Applied Technology group hold certification to ISO 9001. We also work to the Defra Joint Codes of Practice for Research.