Accredited conformity assessment bodies, and organisations certified by them, may refer to their accredited certification in line with these rules. The auditor is required to check the use of marks at every visit; incorrect use will be raised as a nonconformity.
General rules
- Marks must not be used on products or product packaging, or in any way that suggests a product has been certified, unless the certification is product certification.
- Marks must not be used on laboratory test, calibration or inspection reports, except by bodies accredited for those activities.
- No misleading statement may be made about certification or accreditation status. Advertising must be amended if the scope is reduced.
- Certificates and marks may only be used for the name, location and scope that were certified.
- On suspension or withdrawal, all advertising material referring to certification or accreditation must be discontinued.
- Certification or accreditation must not be used in a way that brings IACAB or the accreditation system into disrepute.
- Marks must be reproduced from the master artwork without distortion, and should reference the certificate or accreditation number.
Consequences of misuse
Incorrect references to certification or accreditation status, or misleading use of certificates, marks or reports, may lead to suspension or withdrawal, publication of the transgression and, where necessary, legal action.