Validation and Verification
Purpose and Scope
- Defines the rules for clients’ use of the BF logo and verification/validation statements, applicable to all standards and programs under the verification scope.
Responsibilities
- Technical Manager & Technical Committee: Inform clients of proper logo use in documents and promotional materials.
- Assessors: Verify logo usage during periodic assessments.
Usage Principles
- Clients may use the BF logo in relevant documents and promotional materials, but usage must not be misleading or imply product certification.
- The logo can only be associated with valid verification/validation reports, clearly identified with the applicable standard and scope.
- Written approval from BF is required; the BF accreditation seal cannot be used independently.
Prohibitions and Restrictions
- The logo or claims must not be used in unrelated activities.
- Usage must not mislead, exaggerate, or harm BF’s credibility.
- It must not imply product quality, performance, or conformity.
Violations and Consequences
- Misuse (e.g., false claims, incorrect logo use) will result in suspension of verification/validation status, published on BF’s website.
- Clients must implement corrective actions within 30 days; otherwise, reports may be withdrawn, or the scope reduced.
Personnel Certification
Purpose and Scope
This policy is established to regulate the proper use of ISO/IEC 17024 personnel certification certificates and the BF logo, ensuring that their presentation does not mislead stakeholders or damage the credibility of BF.
It applies to all certified persons under BF personnel certification and covers documents, advertisements, websites, business cards, and other public materials related to the certificate and logo.
Responsibilities
- Certified persons: Must comply with this policy, ensure correct use of the logo, and immediately cease use if certification is suspended, withdrawn, or expired.
- Quality Department: Responsible for monitoring logo usage, reviewing cases of misuse, and initiating suspension or withdrawal procedures.
- CEO: Holds final authority to approve policies related to logo use and decisions on nonconformities.
Rules of Use
- The logo may only be used in conjunction with a valid and active certificate, and must not mislead or expand the scope of certification.
- The logo must not be used for uncertified activities or other programs.
- Use is strictly limited to the certified person and may not be transferred to clients, subcontractors, or third parties.
- Descriptive text (e.g., “accredited” or “approval granted”) must not be used as a substitute for the BF logo.
Prohibited Use
- When certification is suspended, withdrawn, or expired, the BF logo and any related statements must immediately cease to be used.
- All documents, advertisements, websites, or other materials containing the logo must be removed.
Misuse Handling
- Misuse of the logo will result in the certificate being suspended for three (3) months, with the suspension and reason announced on the website.
- Certified persons must complete corrective actions within 30 days; otherwise, the certificate will be withdrawn or its scope reduced.