Proper Use of Certification Marks
Organisations that achieve certification through MaxStandards Certification may use certification marks to demonstrate their compliance with recognised management system standards.
Certification marks indicate that an organisation's management system has been evaluated through an independent certification process aligned with internationally recognised standards published by the International Organization for Standardization.
The use of certification marks must follow specific guidelines to ensure accurate representation and to protect the integrity and credibility of the certification process.
Authorised Use of Certification Marks
Certified organisations are permitted to use the certification mark to communicate that their management system has been successfully certified.
Certification marks may typically be used on:
- Company websites
- Marketing and promotional materials
- Corporate brochures and presentations
- Stationery and business documentation
- Email signatures and communication materials
The certification mark must always be used in accordance with the scope and validity of the certification granted.
Restrictions on Certification Mark Usage
To prevent misrepresentation, certification marks must not be used in a misleading or inappropriate manner.
Certified organisations must ensure that:
- The certification mark is not used on products or product packaging
- The certification mark does not imply product certification
- Certification claims are limited to the certified scope
- The certification mark is not used in a way that could mislead customers or stakeholders
The certification mark represents management system certification and does not indicate approval of specific products or services.
Use of Accreditation References
Where certification is issued through certification bodies accredited by organisations recognised under the International Accreditation Forum, the use of accreditation symbols must follow the rules established by the relevant accreditation body.
Accreditation marks may only be used when permitted and must always comply with the applicable usage guidelines.
Suspension or Withdrawal of Certification
If certification is suspended, withdrawn, or expires, the organisation must immediately discontinue the use of the certification mark and any references to certification.
Failure to comply with certification mark usage requirements may result in corrective actions, suspension, or withdrawal of certification.
Responsibility of Certified Organisations
Certified organisations are responsible for ensuring that certification claims are accurate and that certification marks are used in accordance with established guidelines.
Organisations must:
- Ensure certification claims remain accurate and up to date
- Use certification marks only during the validity of certification
- Avoid misleading references to certification status
- Remove certification references if certification status changes
Protecting the Integrity of Certification
Certification marks represent trust, compliance, and commitment to recognised management system standards. Proper use of these marks helps maintain the credibility of certification and ensures transparency for customers, regulators, and stakeholders.
MaxStandards Certification works with certified organisations to ensure that certification marks are used responsibly and in a manner that reflects the integrity of the certification process.