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Certificate & Logo Usage Policy

Certificate & Logo Usage Policy

Purpose

This policy explains how certified clients of GCAI are permitted to use the GCAI Certification Mark, Accredited Registration Logo, and certification documents in a responsible and compliant manner.
It ensures:

  • Alignment with GCAI and accreditation body requirements (e.g., IAS, IAF MDs).
  • Avoidance of misuse or misrepresentation of certification.
  • Preservation of trust, impartiality, and credibility of certification.

Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All certified clients of GCAI.
  • All forms of use of:
    • GCAI Certification Mark and Accreditation Logos.
    • Certificates issued by GCAI.
    • References to certification in advertising, websites, or promotional material.

It applies globally to all locations, communication channels, and media formats.

Authorized Use of the Certification Mark

Certified clients may use the GCAI Certification Mark only in connection with activities, sites, and scope covered by their valid certificate.

Permitted uses include:

  • Stationery such as letterheads and envelopes.
  • Marketing brochures, company profiles, and promotional presentations.
  • Company websites and social media pages (with correct reference to scope).
  • Exhibitor displays, banners, and stalls at industry events.

The mark must:

  • Always appear next to the certified company’s name or logo.
  • Never be displayed more prominently than the company’s own logo.
  • Always be accompanied by a clear reference to the standard (e.g., “ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certified by GCAI”).

Prohibited Use of the Certification Mark

The mark must not be used in a way that suggests product approval, labelling, or government endorsement. Specifically, it must not appear on:

  • Products, product packaging, or labels.
  • Laboratory test reports, calibration certificates, or inspection reports.
  • Business cards of employees.
  • Vehicles, uniforms, or flags that imply product conformity.
  • Digital or printed material referring to uncertified locations, activities, or subsidiaries.

Logo & Certificate Usage Guidelines

  • Minimum size: 20mm in height (unless authorized by GCAI in writing).
  • Must be resized proportionally (no distortion).
  • Colors: may be reproduced in orange, black, dark blue, gold, or the dominant letterhead color.
  • Logos must not be modified, combined with other symbols, or altered in any way.
  • Certificates issued by GCAI must always be reproduced in full and never altered, cropped, or edited.

Suspension, Withdrawal, or Termination of Certification

If certification is suspended, withdrawn, or terminated, the certified client must:

  • Immediately cease all use of the certification mark and logo.
  • Remove or update any promotional material containing certification references.
  • Return original certificates or provide written confirmation of their destruction.
  • Stop making any claims to certification status until reinstated.

Failure to comply may result in legal action, public notice of withdrawal, or enforcement by the accreditation body (IAS).

Publicity and Representation Rules

Clients may only reference certification in ways that:

  • Clearly identify the management system standard and scope (e.g., “Information Security Management System certified to ISO/IEC 27001:2022”).
  • Do not imply product or service certification.
  • Do not imply that uncertified activities, processes, or locations are covered.
  • Do not mislead stakeholders about the extent or status of certification.

Misuse, Violations, and Disciplinary Actions

Any misuse of the certification mark, logo, or certificate will result in corrective actions, which may include:

  1. Written warning and cease-and-desist notice.
  2. Request to withdraw or correct offending materials.
  3. Suspension or withdrawal of certification.
  4. Notification to stakeholders and regulatory authorities.
  5. Legal action to protect the integrity of GCAI and accreditation body marks.

Quick Reference: Do’s and Don’ts

DO

  • Use the logo only for certified activities and locations.
  • Reference the correct ISO/IEC standard alongside the mark.
  • Update materials immediately if your certification scope or status changes.

DON’T

  • Place the logo on products, packaging, or test reports.
  • Claim or imply product certification or government approval.
  • Continue using the logo after suspension, withdrawal, or expiry.
  • Use the logo for uncertified sites, divisions, or services.

📬 Questions or Clarifications?

If you are unsure whether your intended use of the GCAI Certification Mark or Accredited Logo is permitted, please contact us:
📧 operations@gcaicert.com | ☎️ +91 9986877136