CAF U of S policy modernization-the Interactive Process Tool that will ensure a holistic and consistent approach to assessing the standard
May 16, 2025 - Defence Stories
Estimated read time - 2:30
A modernized CAF Universality of Service (U of S) policy suite came into effect on 01 April, 2025. The new policy precisely and objectively defines a set of minimum operational standards for all CAF members that reflect the realities of military service in the twenty-first century.
A key component of the modernized policy is an interactive process tool that has been developed to guide commanding officers and designated staff in assessing a CAF member’s ability to meet U of S.
How does it work?
The interactive process tool uses a sequenced, member-centric approach based on an interdisciplinary construct, and has been carefully designed to:
- Provide commanding officers and other decision-makers with the full scope of subject matter expertise and a step-by-step approach to supporting and assessing a CAF member’s ability to meet U of S;
- Provide supportive actions where appropriate to help a CAF member to meet the minimum operational standards related to U of S;
- Assess a CAF member’s ability to meet the minimum operational standards related to U of S, based on precise, detailed criteria grounded in today’s military operating environment;
- Ensure a fair, equitable and repeatable process, pan-CAF.
What does the interactive process tool factor into an assessment?
U of S minimum operational standards are underpinned by research-based studies of medical, physical, cognitive, behavioural and operational demands on an individual. Medical restrictions, performance deficiencies, and complicated family matters are a few of the factors that may affect a CAF members ability to meet the minimum operational standards for U of S. CAF members should be confident however that the modernized U of S policy will not compromise or lower overall CAF standards, nor will it dramatically change the way that most CAF members serve and operate on a day-to-day basis.
What happens if a CAF member can’t meet minimum operational U of S standards?
U of S is a critical policy that helps ensure that the CAF meets its mission obligations. As was done in the past, every effort will be made to support CAF members who experience challenges in temporarily meeting U of S minimum operational standards because of medically-related or other factors. They will continue to be provided with care and support to allow them time to recover or to regain the ability to meet the standards once again and return to duty. Members who are unable to permanently meet the minimum operational standards for U of S for medical reasons and do not qualify for the Interim Reconstitution Employment Measure (IREM) will be transitioned from the CAF.
Watch The Maple Leaf, Defence Team News, @CanadianForces and @milperscom social media accounts, and the CAF App, for further updates regarding U of S modernization.