CODE OF CONDUCT FOR SDAB

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR SDAB & PERSONNEL OF ACCREDITED BODIES

FORWARD

The freedoms and principles set out in this report are planned as a focal piece of the Certification Administration for Affirming Bodies LLC (SDAB), program to work on its own assistance and that of its certify bodies to the business local area.

SDAB and its certify bodies are immovably dedicated to working on their administration. This implies a service that:

• Continuously puts the client first, offering types of assistance that satisfy plainly characterized guidelines or agreement conditions, in manners receptive to business perspectives and necessities.

• Delivers clear, quantifiable advantages to business, with accentuation on the advancement of good practice as opposed to the avoidance of poor

• Is profoundly productive, addressing great incentive for cash, accomplished through great administration. 

• Regards and values the abilities and information on clients.

HOW THIS INFLUENCES CLIENTS 

This record sets out obviously client privileges to support in the release of agreements. 

THE CLIENT’S RIGHTS

1. To get an expert degree of care based on business needs and wants.

2. To be given itemized data on quality administrations, including quality principles, project timescales and costs.

3. To get counsel whenever through the SDAB or body staff whenever contracted to supply it.

4. To be doled out a superb resource, satisfactory to the client, and to be relegated a second individual assuming the client and the underlying contact concur this is helpful for the client.

5. To be ensured arrangements for visits on a particular date and time.

6. To be given an unmistakable clarification of any proposed administration, including predictable dangers and practical other options, before the client chooses to carry out proposals.

7. To have any grumbling about our administrations – whoever gives them – researched and to get a full and brief composed answer from the Overseeing Chief/President at first of the body lastly from SDAB.

8. To approach their records, and to realize that those working for them are under an obligation of care to keep the records private.

9. To pick whether they wish to partake in specialized examination or preparing.

10. To be served by an individual who will notice completely the necessities of the Set of
principles.

CLIENT STANDARDS

There are eight principles for the help SDAB and its authorize bodies give.

1. Suggestions will be feasible. Client organizations ought not be suggested activities or arrangements past capacity to carry out.

2. Consummation of Ventures. Before the task ends a choice will be made about any proceeding with relationship or different necessities the client might have. The applicable contact will concur plans for meeting these.

3. A named qualified individual liable for every client. SDAB and its certify bodies ought to give a named, qualified individual who will be liable for the client business project.

4. Arrangement times. Licensed bodies and SDAB will concur a particular arrangement time and meet around then.

5. Scratch-off of gatherings. The certify body or SDAB contact won’t drop upon the arrival of the gathering.

6. Hanging tight time for administration. At the point when clients call licensed bodies or SDAB workplaces, specialized help ought to be given inside a predefined time.

7. Game plans to guarantee clients, incorporating those utilizing individuals with unique necessities, can utilize administrations. Licensed Bodies and SDAB contacts will guarantee that the administrations they orchestrate can be utilized by the representatives of the client.

8. Regard for protection, pride and strict and social convictions. Every certify body and SDAB administrations will make arrangement so appropriate individual thought is shown, for instance by guaranteeing that protection, nobility and strict and social convictions are regarded.

CODE OF CONDUCT

1. Licensed bodies and SDAB faculty will act in a dependable and impartial way in connection to clients, and any organizations associated with administration by them.

2. Licensed bodies and SDAB faculty will not acknowledge installment, gift, commission, markdown nor will they benefit in any capacity from organizations adjusted, from their delegates, or other intrigued individual.

3. Accredited bodies and SDAB will unveil to their clients any pertinent connections they may have with different associations prior to undertaking any work.

4. Authorize bodies and SDAB will not reveal the discoveries, or any piece of them or some other data acquired over support of any outsider, except if approved recorded as a hard copy by the client.

5. Licensed bodies and SDAB will not act at all biased to the standing or the interest of clients or of organizations adjusted for their benefit.

6. Certify bodies and SDAB will, in case of any supposed break of this code, co-work completely in any conventional enquiry strategy worked by SDAB the client, or by a
designated together proficient body.

7. Certify bodies and SDAB will consent to their procedural documentation.

EXECUTION AND PROGRESS

Appraisal and Accreditation and Consultancy won’t all alone accomplish anything for client organizations.

Clients meet their objectives themselves yet with certify body and SDAB help.

Proficient administrations will:

• Assist with explaining the mission.
• Assist with setting goals.
• Help with characterizing technique.
• Make accessible abilities, information and expert guidance.
• Release a few errands.

Distributing an amount of cash to a task isn’t sufficient, Clients need to designate time too.
Frequently what they need isn’t dependably what they need. Clients ought to in this way search for a change as the most substantial consequence of expert administrations

Clients ought to anticipate:

• Firm bearing.
• Positive articulations.
• Brief reaction.
• Some type of assurance.
• Politeness.
• Compassion, not compassion.
• Viable undertaking the board.

With authorize bodies and SDAB, clients will likewise get the responsibility and activity of all their joint workers, for example their entire groups. Client objectives are our joint objectives. Client targets are our joint goals. Client fulfillment is fundamental for our joint mission.

FEEDBACK

Clients ought to be urged to give their perspectives to empower us to foster our principles.

FORWARD

The freedoms, responsibilities, and principles set out in this Code of Conduct form a central pillar of the Certification Administration for Affirming Bodies LLC (SDAB) and its system of accredited bodies. This Code is designed to guide SDAB and all accredited bodies in delivering professional, ethical, and effective certification, assessment, and consultancy services to the business community.

SDAB and its accredited bodies are firmly committed to the continuous improvement of their services. This commitment extends not only to compliance with applicable standards and contractual obligations, but also to the consistent delivery of value, integrity, and professionalism in all interactions with clients and stakeholders.

Our approach is grounded in the belief that certification and accreditation activities should support organizations in achieving meaningful, sustainable improvements. Accordingly, SDAB and its accredited bodies strive to provide services that:

• Place the client at the center of all activities, delivering services that meet clearly defined requirements and agreed contractual terms, while remaining responsive to evolving business needs and sector-specific realities.
• Deliver clear, measurable, and demonstrable benefits to client organizations, with a strong emphasis on the promotion of good practice rather than the mere avoidance of nonconformity or failure.
• Operate efficiently and effectively, ensuring value for money through sound governance, competent management, and responsible use of resources.
• Respect, recognize, and value the experience, expertise, and knowledge of clients, acknowledging that sustainable improvement is achieved through collaboration rather than prescription.

This Code of Conduct establishes a shared understanding of expectations, rights, and responsibilities. It is intended to foster trust, transparency, and accountability across all SDAB activities and those of its accredited bodies.

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HOW THIS CODE AFFECTS CLIENTS

This Code of Conduct is intended to provide clarity, confidence, and assurance to clients engaging with SDAB or any accredited body operating under its authority. It defines, in transparent and practical terms, what clients can expect in relation to service quality, professional behavior, accountability, and ethical standards. By clearly articulating both client rights and service obligations, this Code establishes a framework that supports trust-based, professional relationships and promotes consistency across all engagements.

At its core, this Code exists to protect the interests of clients. It ensures that services are delivered in a manner that is fair, impartial, competent, and aligned with recognized best practice. Clients can rely on the fact that SDAB and its accredited bodies operate under a unified set of principles designed to promote integrity, objectivity, and professionalism. This is particularly important in certification, accreditation, assessment, and consultancy activities, where impartial judgment, confidentiality, and credibility are essential.

For clients, this Code provides a clear statement of rights. These rights include access to accurate and timely information, professional advice, competent personnel, and transparent processes. Clients are entitled to understand what services are being offered, how those services will be delivered, what standards or criteria will be applied, and what outcomes can reasonably be expected. This clarity supports informed decision-making and reduces the risk of misunderstanding or unmet expectations.

The Code also establishes service standards that directly influence the client experience. These standards address practical aspects of service delivery such as appointment scheduling, response times, continuity of personnel, accessibility, and respect for privacy and personal beliefs. By setting minimum expectations in these areas, the Code helps ensure that clients receive a consistent level of service regardless of which accredited body or SDAB representative they engage with. This consistency is essential for maintaining confidence in the SDAB system as a whole.

Another key way in which this Code affects clients is through its emphasis on feasibility and relevance. Recommendations, findings, and advice provided by SDAB or accredited bodies must be realistic, proportionate, and appropriate to the client’s context. Clients should not be encouraged to pursue actions that are impractical, excessively burdensome, or misaligned with their resources or strategic objectives. This principle reinforces the idea that professional services should enable progress and improvement, rather than impose unnecessary complexity.

The Code further protects clients by requiring transparency around conflicts of interest and relationships. Any relevant affiliations or interests that could influence objectivity must be disclosed in advance. This allows clients to assess potential risks to impartiality and to make informed choices about proceeding with an engagement. Such transparency is fundamental to maintaining credibility and trust, particularly in regulated or high-stakes environments.

Confidentiality is another central element of the Code’s impact on clients. Clients can be assured that information obtained during the course of service delivery will be handled with care and will not be disclosed to third parties without proper authorization, except where required by law. This obligation supports open communication, enabling clients to share information honestly and completely without fear that sensitive data will be misused or inappropriately disclosed.

The Code also establishes clear mechanisms for addressing concerns, complaints, or disputes. Clients have the right to raise issues regarding service delivery, conduct, or outcomes, and to have those concerns investigated fairly and promptly. The existence of a structured complaints and escalation process reinforces accountability and demonstrates SDAB’s commitment to continuous improvement. Clients should feel confident that their feedback will be taken seriously and addressed at an appropriate level.

Importantly, this Code does not position clients as passive recipients of services. Instead, it recognizes that successful outcomes are achieved through collaboration. Clients are encouraged to engage actively, allocate appropriate time and resources, and work constructively with SDAB and accredited body personnel. The Code therefore supports a partnership-based approach, where responsibilities are shared and objectives are jointly pursued.

By adhering to this Code, SDAB and its accredited bodies aim to deliver a client experience that is not only compliant with formal requirements, but also professional, respectful, and value-driven. Clients should expect interactions characterized by courtesy, clear communication, timely responses, and competent project management. They should also expect honest feedback and guidance that is focused on meaningful improvement rather than superficial compliance.

Ultimately, this Code provides clients with assurance that SDAB and its accredited bodies operate within a robust ethical and professional framework. It reinforces confidence that engagements will be managed responsibly, that client interests will be safeguarded, and that services will support the achievement of defined objectives throughout the full lifecycle of any agreement. In doing so, the Code contributes to stronger relationships, improved outcomes, and sustained trust in SDAB and its accredited body network.

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THE CLIENT’S RIGHTS

Clients engaging SDAB or its accredited bodies are entitled to the following rights:

1. Professional Standard of Care
   Clients have the right to receive a professional standard of care that is aligned with their business needs, objectives, and expectations.
2. Access to Clear and Detailed Information
   Clients have the right to receive comprehensive and accurate information regarding quality services, including applicable standards, methodologies, project timelines, deliverables, and associated costs.
3. Access to Advice and Support
   Clients have the right to receive advice and guidance from SDAB or accredited body personnel at any time during the period in which services are contracted.
4. Assignment of Competent Resources
   Clients have the right to be assigned a suitably qualified and competent primary contact. Where appropriate and agreed, a secondary contact may also be assigned to support continuity and effectiveness.
5. Confirmed Appointments
   Clients have the right to confirmed arrangements for visits, assessments, audits, or consultations at an agreed date and time.
6. Informed Decision-Making
   Clients have the right to receive clear explanations of any proposed service, including foreseeable risks, limitations, and realistic alternatives, before deciding whether to proceed.
7. Complaints and Appeals
   Clients have the right to have any complaint regarding SDAB or accredited body services thoroughly investigated and to receive a full, timely, and written response. Initial responses will be provided by the Managing Director/President of the relevant body, with final escalation available through SDAB.
8. Access to Records and Confidentiality
   Clients have the right to access their records and to be assured that all personnel involved in their engagement are bound by strict confidentiality and a duty of care.
9. Choice in Participation
   Clients have the right to decide whether they wish to participate in technical reviews, assessments, training, or related activities.
10. Ethical and Respectful Treatment
    Clients have the right to be served by individuals who fully comply with the requirements of this Code of Conduct.

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CLIENT SERVICE STANDARDS

SDAB and its accredited bodies are guided by the following eight core service principles:

1. Feasible Recommendations
   All recommendations must be realistic, practical, and achievable. Clients will not be advised to pursue actions or solutions that exceed their capacity, resources, or operational context.
2. Completion and Continuity of Projects
   Before the conclusion of any project, a decision will be made regarding any ongoing relationship or additional needs. Clear plans and next steps will be agreed with the client.
3. Named Responsible Individual
   Each client engagement will have a named, qualified individual who is accountable for the delivery and oversight of the project.
4. Agreed Appointment Times
   SDAB and accredited bodies will agree on specific appointment times and will make every reasonable effort to meet them as scheduled.
5. Cancellation of Meetings
   Meetings, audits, or visits will not be cancelled on the day of the appointment except in exceptional and unavoidable circumstances.
6. Response Times
   When clients contact SDAB or accredited body offices, technical or administrative assistance will be provided within predefined and communicated response times.
7. Accessibility of Services
   Appropriate arrangements will be made to ensure services are accessible to all clients, including those employing individuals with special needs or disabilities.
8. Respect for Privacy and Beliefs
   SDAB and accredited bodies will respect privacy, dignity, and religious, cultural, and social beliefs, ensuring appropriate consideration is given in all service delivery activities.

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CODE OF CONDUCT

All SDAB personnel and accredited bodies are required to adhere to the following principles:

1. Integrity and Impartiality
   Personnel will act responsibly, ethically, and impartially in all dealings with clients and associated organizations.
2. Avoidance of Conflicts of Interest
   Personnel will not accept payments, gifts, commissions, discounts, or any form of personal benefit from clients, their representatives, or other interested parties that could compromise impartiality.
3. Disclosure of Relationships
   Any relevant relationships or affiliations with other organizations must be disclosed to clients prior to undertaking work.
4. Confidentiality
   Information obtained during the provision of services will not be disclosed to third parties without written authorization from the client, unless required by law.
5. Protection of Client Interests
   Personnel will not act in any way that could harm the reputation, interests, or standing of clients or associated organizations.
6. Cooperation in Investigations
   In the event of an alleged breach of this Code, SDAB personnel and accredited bodies will fully cooperate with any formal investigation conducted by SDAB, the client, or an authorized professional body.
7. Compliance with Procedures
   All activities must be carried out in accordance with approved procedural documentation and applicable standards.

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IMPLEMENTATION AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

Assessment, accreditation, and consultancy services alone do not achieve organizational success. Clients ultimately reach their objectives through their own commitment and actions, supported by SDAB and accredited bodies.

Professional services are intended to:

• Assist in clarifying organizational mission and purpose.
• Support the setting of realistic and measurable objectives.
• Help define strategies and action plans.
• Provide access to expertise, knowledge, and professional advice.
• Support the execution of specific tasks where appropriate.

Financial investment alone is insufficient. Clients must also allocate adequate time, attention, and internal resources. In many cases, what clients initially request may not fully align with what they ultimately require. As such, meaningful and sustainable change should be viewed as the most valuable outcome of professional services.

Clients can reasonably expect:

• Clear and decisive guidance.
• Constructive and honest feedback.
• Timely responses and communication.
• Appropriate assurances regarding service quality and integrity.
• Courtesy and professionalism.
• Empathy and understanding, without condescension or sympathy.
• Effective project and risk management.

Through collaboration with SDAB and accredited bodies, clients benefit from the collective commitment and expertise of entire teams. Client objectives become shared objectives, and client satisfaction is fundamental to the joint mission.

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FEEDBACK AND REVIEW

Clients are encouraged to provide feedback on SDAB and accredited body services. Such feedback is essential to maintaining and improving service standards, strengthening accountability, and ensuring that this Code of Conduct remains relevant, effective, and aligned with best practice.

This Code will be reviewed periodically to ensure continued suitability, effectiveness, and alignment with regulatory, professional, and business expectations.

Branches

SDAB Accreditation

SDAB Head Office

SDAB Sanatan Dharma Accreditation Board
SDAB House
C/O Mr.Garry 54, Glengarnock Avenue,
E-14 3BP Isle Of Dogs, London UK
Tel .: +44-8369083940
email: info@sanatanboards.com
Website: www.sanatanboards.com

MUMBAI Head Office

Sanatan Dharma Accreditation Board (SDAB)
SDAB House
B-401, New Om Kaveri Chs. Ltd., Nagindas pada,
Next To Shiv Sena Office, Nallasopara (E)
Tel .: +91-7499991895
email: info@sanatanboards.com
Website: www.sanatanboards.com

DELHI-NCR Regd. Office

Sanatan Dharma Accreditation Board (SDAB)
SDAB House
Asaoti, Dist Palwal
Faridabad Delhi NCR, Haryana
Tel .: +91-7979801035
Fax: +91-250 2341170
Website: www.sanatanboards.com