CERN Accelerating science

Contractors are expected to comply with the relevant parts of the Code of Conduct as a condition to their performing their activities on the CERN site. It is true that certain points are of more relevance to CERN personnel, but the underlying principles of the Code of Conduct are applicable to us all. If you have a question about the relevance of a particular part of the Code of Conduct to a  contractor, you can contact the Finance and Procurement Department.

(applicability to contractors)

Yes, but with certain particularities. Elected staff representatives enjoy rights that derive from their status. These rights are summarized in Administrative Circular No. 13. This function requires exercising broad freedom of expression.  In so doing, staff representatives must be responsible and avoid undue criticism of CERN. 

(applicability of Code to staff representatives)

The Human Resources Department website has links to the Staff Rules and Regulations, the Administrative and Operational Circulars and the CERN Health Insurance Scheme (CHIS) Rules.  Pension Fund Rules can be found on the Pension Fund website, Safety Rules on the HSE Unit website.  Information on the Financial Rules and Procurement Rules may be obtained from the Finance and Procurement Department.

(use of Code)

Any accusation or complaint shown to be made in bad faith may be considered a violation of acceptable standards of conduct and treated accordingly, including where appropriate, disciplinary action.

You should bring the issues that are affecting your ability to deliver the agreed results to the attention of your hierarchy and seek their guidance. You should do this as soon as these issues become apparent.

(lack of resources)

This may be problematic for several reasons: a statement in a blog is deemed to be public and, in view of your role at CERN, could be misconstrued as official communication of CERN or could reflect on CERN should your personal opinion deviate from official policy. As a general rule, you need prior permission before making a public statement concerning CERN or its activities, unless it is an area in respect of which you have clearly allocated responsibility and you have informed your hierarchy.

You should first talk to your hierarchy, describe the issues you intend to post on your blog and discuss whether and to what extent you will need prior clearance. 

Regardless of the specific content, your general obligations of tact and discretion as a CERN contributor will continue to apply. Finally, running the blog should not interfere with your work hours.

(External communication)