Ethical Practices

Caltag works with a carefully selected network of suppliers to source human tissue and cells. We operate under strict ethical and legal guidelines when procuring these materials and are licensed by the Human Tissue Authority (License Number 12672) to procure, process and store human tissue in the UK.

When dealing with human tissue, suppliers must confirm that they:

• Meet the appropriate quality standards.
• Comply with the Declaration of Helsinki and/or the principles of the ICH GCP guidelines.
• Obtain fully informed donor consent, directly or via authorised agents, using consent forms that clearly outline the material and intended research use.
• Protect the privacy and confidentiality of all individuals involved.

We review our suppliers annually to ensure continued compliance with our ethical policy. Any supplier that does not meet our standards will not be represented by Caltag.

Additionally, the recipient of human tissue and cell samples also has responsibility. When ordering from Caltag, you confirm that:

• If required, you are registered with the HTA to receive and store human tissue.
• Materials will not be used in human subjects, or administered to human subjects in clinical trials, or for diagnostic purposes involving human subjects.
• All materials will comply with applicable laws and regulations as well as your own organisation's policies on human subject research.

• Read our full Ethical Policy

Human Tissue FAQs

Caltag Medsystems Ltd is registered with the UK Government's Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) (registration number is U1360118/UDER) to import animal blood and blood products (e.g. serum) into the UK.

This registration is required to safely and effectively manage the risks of infectious disease and provides assurance that the materials are managed in a way that protects animal health while meeting UK biosecurity and regulatory standards.

A Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) permit is an official document required to move, import, export, or trade endangered wild animals and plants and their derived materials around the world.

In the context of life science research, the animals whose derived materials require such permit include, but are not limited to, Cynomolgus Monkeys, African Green Monkeys, Bottlenose Dolphins and Deer.

Caltag takes the reigns when importing animal-derived products that are regulated under CITES. We take care of this entire process, from coordinating import and export licenses, liaising with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), and working with specialist couriers to ensure smooth shipments across UK Border Control.

As an employee-owned business, our team are at the heart of everything we do and we all have a vested interest in looking after each other and succeeding.

At Caltag, we are committed to maintaining the physical and mental wellbeing of our employees. We offer flexible working opportunities and a self-certification Occupational Sick Pay Scheme (OSPS), enabling our team to look after their health when they need to. We observe the highest standards of workplace safety in accordance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and all relevant regulations and codes of practice made under it. Mental health is treated in the same way as any other physical illness, with equal levels of support when it comes to health, safety and sickness.

Caltag's culture is underpinned by policies that promote fairness, respect and integrity across every aspect of our business, including:

• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
• Equal Opportunities
• Anti-Corruption and Bribery
• Non-Harassment

In line with the Modern Slavery Act 2015, we have a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships and use all reasonable endeavours to implement and enforce effective systems and controls in our own business and throughout our global network.

Our team really are our success and at Caltag, we're committed to developing staff to their full potential, making use of the talents, skills, experience, and diverse cultural perspectives available within our team. We provide multiple opportunities to learn, develop new skills and observe how different departments operate, ensuring continuous professional and personal development.

Our ethical standards extend beyond our own business. We expect our suppliers to uphold the same principles of fairness, safety, respect and legal compliance that we apply ourselves. This includes protecting the wellbeing of their employees, providing safe working conditions, preventing modern slavery, promoting equality and operating with honesty and integrity. Through regular supplier assessments and continuous conversations, we work collaboratively to ensure these standards are maintained across our supply chain.

At Caltag, we take the privacy and security of personal information seriously. We are committed to handling personal data responsibly and transparently, in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and applicable data protection legislation.

Our Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store and protect personal information, while our Cookies Policy provides information about how cookies and similar technologies are used on our website.

We regularly review these policies to ensure they remain appropriate, transparent and aligned with current legislation.