Use of Certification Mark and Logos

The SDAB Accreditation mark and logos

The SDAB authorization mark and logos were refreshed on April 2, 2023. If it’s not too much trouble, allude to ‘Change time period for the new SDAB Accreditation mark and logos’ for the progress plans for SDAB-accredited associations and their certificated clients.

Utilization of the SDAB authorization mark

SDAB-certify associations can show their authorize status on client endorsements utilizing the SDAB certification mark (see supplement 1). Be that as it may, the association showing them will not deceive anybody; downgrade or debase the license mark; use them illicitly; or use them in opposition to the perceived license principles and related guides.
Laws of copyright cover the utilization and show of the imprint and logos, and the SDAB authorization mark and logos are the main variations associations authorize by SDAB are allowed to show.

Assuming you are an SDAB-licensed association

You might utilize the authorization mark (portrait or landscape version) on testaments and reports connecting with those exercises covered under your SDAB authorization. Any unaccredited outcomes or data in the testament or report should be obviously prohibited.

References to licensed status with the accreditation logos

SDAB-certify associations can likewise show certification logos intended for the authorization exercises (see Supplement 3) on the following:
• Citations and evaluations. These will demonstrate any exercises that are not SDAB certify.
• Corporate Writing material, e.g., letterheads, praise slips, solicitations
• Interior walls and entryways
• Show stands
• Websites – This is given the certification’s extension and cutoff points are obviously portrayed. For example, accredited certification bodies might utilize the accreditation mark on all pages of their website gave they have a reasonable assertion/disclaimer close by the certification mark depicting the extension/limit of its license, i.e., “Our certification is restricted to those exercises depicted on our SDAB timetable of accreditation found here.”

The SDAB certification mark or certification logo may not be utilized on:

• Vehicles
• Structures and Flags
• Merchandise or items except if these have been made under a licensed product conformity scheme.
• Essential bundling, e.g., rankle packs

Furthermore, on account of the accreditation mark for certification exercises, they may not be utilized on:
• Laboratories, Inspection Bodies, Proficiency Testing Providers, Reference Material Producers and Medical Diagnostic Service Providers issued reports and certificates.

Further Necessities

• 1. The license logos and any accreditation mark may simply be utilized to demonstrate an accredited status by the associations named on the SDAB license endorsement. Partner organizations of the accredited association may not show or reference the association’s accredited status.
• 2. The license mark ought to be displayed on the client endorsement in a way that is the least dominant mark on it and in a style where it won’t make any sensible individual deduce or in any case accept that the certificate or test report is given straight by SDAB.
• 3. The SDAB mark or logos may not be involved on an item or bundling in a way that suggests or could be deciphered as indicating product conformity.
• 4. The accredited association will stop utilizing certificates, mark, logos or alluding to its licensed status in the event that it is (i) not in great monetary remaining with SDAB and (ii) assuming it has gotten a notification of progress of licensed status for withdrawal of accreditation certificate. The licensed association will make prompt arrangement for erasing references to accredited status and logos all stationary, advertisement, websites and
• different mediums.
• 5. Where important, a licensed association getting a notification of progress of certify status for withdrawal of accreditation certificate will educate those concerning its partners and other people who might have a sensible interest, like trading partners, clients and enrollment offices, that their licensed status has been removed.
• 6. The certify association will not make future arrangements (i.e., setting ads, ordering stationary, etc.) for the utilization of client certificates, logos or from alluding to its certify status assuming it is (i) not in great monetary remaining with SDAB and (ii) in the event that it has gotten a notification of progress of certify status for suspension of certificate.
• 7. The authorize association will alter its utilization of certificates, mark, logos and references to its certify status in the event that it has been educated by means of a notification concerning change of licensed status that its extent of accreditation has been diminished or revised.
• 8. The SDAB accreditation mark and logos should not be adjusted, i.e., change of shape, colors and so on (see supplement 2).

Giving SDAB logos to Certificated clients and students

• 9. SDAB-certify associations should guarantee that where their clients utilize the license logo, they consent to the right use. The authorization logo ought to be provided to clients as a joined logo with the SDAB-licensed associations on the left and the pertinent SDAB logo on the right (see model in supplement 4). The clients of the SDAB accredited associations should not utilize the accreditation mark.
• 10. Individual students of SDAB-certify training providers or licensed courses should not utilize the certification mark or logo.

Supplement 1 : The ongoing SDAB license mark for certificates

The ongoing authorization mark being used by SDAB is shown below. High-resolution versions are accessible to accredited conformity bodies:

Supplement 2 : Restrictions on adjustments or changes of the SDAB mark or logos

Do not resize the mark and logos.

Do not edit the transparency.

Supplement 3 : The SDAB accreditation logos

SDAB-accredited associations will be provided with high-resolution versions of the logos as per their license plan.

Supplement 4 : Example of a joined logo provided to certificated clients or students

Further guidance
SDAB-certify associations with questions in regards to utilizing the SDAB accreditation mark or logos ought to contact SDAB corporate office through sanatanboards.com or their neighborhood delegate. Certificated clients or students should contact their certificate issuing body.

Introduction

The SDAB (Sanatan Development Accreditation Board) accreditation mark and logos are powerful symbols of conformity, quality, and international recognition. They represent an organization’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards within their field of operation. This guide provides comprehensive instructions for SDAB-accredited organizations and their certificated clients on the proper use, display, and management of these marks in accordance with SDAB policies, which were updated and refreshed on April 2, 2023.

The marks serve as visual evidence that an organization has been independently assessed against internationally recognized standards and operates with technical competence, impartiality, and integrity. Their proper use protects the value and credibility of the SDAB accreditation system while preventing misleading representations in the marketplace.

Section 1: Understanding the SDAB Accreditation System

1.1 The Significance of SDAB Accreditation

SDAB accreditation provides formal recognition that a conformity assessment body (such as a certification body, laboratory, inspection body, or training provider) is competent to carry out specific conformity assessment tasks. This accreditation:

• Demonstrates technical competence and reliability
• Provides international recognition through multilateral agreements
• Enhances customer confidence in certified products, services, and systems
• Facilitates cross-border trade by reducing technical barriers
• Assures compliance with relevant standards and regulations

1.2 The 2023 Mark Refresh

On April 2, 2023, SDAB introduced refreshed versions of its accreditation mark and logos. This refresh modernized the visual identity while maintaining the core recognition elements. All accredited organizations are required to transition to the new marks according to the specified transition timeline outlined in the document “Change time period for the new SDAB Accreditation mark and logos.”

The transition period allows organizations to phase out existing stationery, certificates, and marketing materials while minimizing waste and cost. During this period, organizations should develop and implement a transition plan that addresses all uses of the marks across their operations.

Section 2: Authorized Use of the SDAB Accreditation Mark

2.1 Who May Use the Accreditation Mark

Only organizations that hold current, valid SDAB accreditation certificates are authorized to use the SDAB accreditation mark. The accreditation is specific to the activities and scope detailed in the accreditation certificate. Any use beyond this specific scope constitutes misuse and may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or withdrawal of accreditation.

The SDAB accreditation mark and logos are protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use constitutes copyright infringement and may lead to legal action in addition to accreditation consequences.

2.2 Primary Authorized Uses

SDAB-accredited organizations may use the accreditation mark (available in both portrait and landscape orientations) on:

A. Certificates and Reports

• The mark may be displayed on certificates and reports relating specifically to those activities covered under the organization’s SDAB accreditation.
• Any results or information in the certificate or report that fall outside the accredited scope must be clearly distinguished and separated from accredited activities.
• The mark must be reproduced clearly and legibly, maintaining the proportions and colors specified by SDAB.
• Electronic certificates bearing the mark must be protected against unauthorized alteration.

B. Marketing and Promotional Materials

• Corporate stationery (letterheads, compliments slips, invoices)
• Marketing brochures and technical literature
• Presentations and proposals
• Email signatures (with appropriate disclaimer regarding scope)

C. Digital Platforms

• Organizational websites (with proper scope disclosure)
• Social media profiles (with appropriate context)
• Digital advertisements (with accreditation scope clearly indicated)

D. Physical Displays

• Office walls and doors (in areas relevant to accredited activities)
• Exhibition stands at trade shows and conferences
• Reception areas and waiting rooms

2.3 Prohibited Uses of the Accreditation Mark

The SDAB accreditation mark must NOT be used on:

A. Physical Assets

• Vehicles of any type (company cars, vans, trucks, etc.)
• Buildings and flags (except as specifically authorized for display on walls/doors)
• Clothing or uniforms (except for authorized staff badges)

B. Products and Packaging

• Goods or products unless these have been manufactured under an accredited product conformity scheme specifically covering those products.
• Primary packaging materials (e.g., blister packs, immediate product containers)
• Product labels or tags (except as permitted under specific product certification schemes)
• Shipping containers and secondary packaging

C. Reports from Specific Conformity Assessment Bodies

• Laboratories, inspection bodies, proficiency testing providers, reference material producers, and medical diagnostic service providers may NOT use the accreditation mark on their issued reports and certificates. These entities must use the appropriate accreditation logo instead.

Section 3: Use of Accreditation Logos

3.1 Purpose and Distinction from the Accreditation Mark

While the accreditation mark is reserved primarily for certificates, SDAB provides specific accreditation logos designed for different accreditation activities. These logos serve to indicate accredited status in various contexts while maintaining visual distinction from the formal accreditation mark.

3.2 Authorized Uses of Accreditation Logos

SDAB-accredited organizations may display accreditation logos on:

A. Quotations and Proposals

• These documents may include the appropriate accreditation logo.
• Any activities described in the quotation or proposal that are not covered by SDAB accreditation must be clearly indicated as non-accredited.

B. Corporate Stationery

• Letterheads, business cards, compliments slips, and invoices
• The logo should be positioned appropriately without dominating the stationery design

C. Physical Premises

• Interior walls and doors in areas where accredited activities are performed
• The display should be professional and not imply accreditation of non-accredited areas

D. Exhibition Stands

• Trade show and conference displays
• The logo should be displayed with context about the specific accreditation scope

E. Websites

• All pages of the organization’s website, provided that:
  1. The accreditation’s scope and limits are clearly described
  2. A clear statement/disclaimer appears alongside the logo describing the scope/limit of accreditation
  3. Example statement: “Our accreditation is limited to those activities described on our SDAB schedule of accreditation found [here with link].”

3.3 Logo Provision and Specifications

SDAB-accredited organizations are provided with high-resolution versions of the appropriate logos based on their specific accreditation scheme. These digital files must be used as provided, without alteration to colors, proportions, or design elements.

Section 4: Critical Requirements and Restrictions

4.1 Scope Limitation and Attribution

1. Named Organization Restriction: Accreditation logos and marks may only be used to demonstrate accredited status by the specific organizations named on the SDAB accreditation certificate. Subsidiaries, sister companies, parent organizations, or any other related entities may NOT display or reference the accredited organization’s status unless they themselves hold separate accreditation.
2. Dominance Restriction on Certificates: When displayed on client certificates, the accreditation mark must be:
   • The least dominant mark on the certificate
   • Positioned and styled so that no reasonable person would infer or otherwise believe that the certificate or test report is issued directly by SDAB
   • Clearly subordinate to the issuing organization’s own branding and marks
3. Product Conformity Implications: The SDAB mark or logos may NOT be used on products or packaging in any manner that suggests or could reasonably be interpreted as indicating product conformity, unless specifically authorized under an accredited product certification scheme.

4.2 Status Change Obligations

Organizations must maintain compliance with financial and technical requirements to retain accreditation. Specific obligations apply when accreditation status changes:

A. Financial Standing Requirements

• Organizations not in good financial standing with SDAB must immediately cease using certificates, marks, logos, or references to accredited status.
• Immediate arrangements must be made to remove references to accredited status and logos from all stationery, advertisements, websites, and other media.

B. Notification of Status Change

• Upon receiving notification of impending withdrawal of accreditation certificate, the organization must:
  1. Immediately cease all use of accreditation references
  2. Inform partners, trading partners, clients, and membership bodies with a reasonable interest that their accredited status is being withdrawn
  3. Retrieve and destroy any certificates or materials bearing the accreditation marks that are within their control

C. Future Planning Restrictions

• Organizations that are either (i) not in good financial standing with SDAB or (ii) have received notification of impending suspension of certificate must NOT make future arrangements involving the use of client certificates, logos, or references to accredited status.
• This includes placing advertisements, ordering stationery, printing marketing materials, or making any commitments that imply continued accredited status.

D. Scope Modification Requirements

• Organizations informed via notification that their scope of accreditation has been reduced or revised must immediately modify their use of certificates, marks, logos, and references to accurately reflect the current accredited scope.
• All materials must be updated to remove references to any activities no longer covered by accreditation.

4.3 Prohibition of Alterations

The SDAB accreditation mark and logos must NOT be modified in any way, including but not limited to:

• Changes to shape, proportions, or layout
• Alteration of specified colors
• Addition of graphical elements, textures, or effects
• Changes to typography or font
• Resizing that distorts proportions
• Editing transparency or adding drop shadows
• Combination with other graphical elements in a way that alters their appearance

High-resolution versions provided by SDAB must be used as-is, following the technical specifications provided in Supplement 2.

Section 5: Provisions for Certificated Clients and Students

5.1 Client Use of Accreditation Logos

SDAB-accredited organizations may permit their certificated clients to use the appropriate accreditation logo under specific conditions:

A. Combined Logo Requirement

• Clients must use a combined logo format with the SDAB-accredited organization’s logo on the left and the relevant SDAB accreditation logo on the right (see Supplement 4 for example).
• The combined logo must be provided to clients by the accredited organization in the correct format.
• Clients may NOT create their own versions or modify the combined logo.

B. Accredited Organization Responsibilities

• SDAB-accredited organizations must ensure that clients using the accreditation logo comply with all usage requirements.
• Organizations must provide clients with clear guidelines on proper use and monitor compliance.
• Organizations must have a process to address misuse by clients, which may include revocation of permission to use the logo.

C. Client Restrictions

• Certificated clients may NOT use the SDAB accreditation mark under any circumstances.
• Client use is limited to the specific combined logo format provided by the accredited organization.
• Use must be limited to materials related to the certified scope only.
• Clients must not imply broader accreditation than what has been certified.

5.2 Student Use Restrictions

Individual students of SDAB-accredited training providers or accredited courses:

• May NOT use the SDAB accreditation mark under any circumstances
• May NOT use SDAB accreditation logos
• May reference their completion of an accredited course in text format only
• Must accurately represent the scope and nature of their qualification
• May not imply personal accreditation or certification by SDAB

Section 6: Technical Specifications and Visual Identity

6.1 Current SDAB Accreditation Mark (Supplement 1)

The current accreditation mark in use since April 2, 2023, features:

• The SDAB acronym in a distinctive typeface
• The word “ACCREDITED” clearly displayed
• A unique graphical element representing quality and conformity
• Specific color specifications (Pantone/RGB/CMYK values provided by SDAB)
• Clear space requirements around the mark
• Minimum size specifications for reproduction

High-resolution versions are available to accredited conformity assessment bodies through the SDAB portal or by request to the corporate office.

6.2 Restrictions on Modifications (Supplement 2)

Strict guidelines govern the reproduction of SDAB marks and logos:

A. Size and Proportion

• Do not resize the mark and logos disproportionately
• Maintain original aspect ratios
• Observe minimum size requirements for different media
• Ensure legibility at all sizes

B. Color and Appearance

• Use only approved color versions
• Maintain color consistency across media
• Do not edit transparency or apply filters
• Ensure proper contrast with background
• Use approved monochrome versions when color is not available

C. Context and Placement

• Do not combine with other graphical elements in a way that alters appearance
• Maintain clear space requirements
• Ensure proper positioning relative to other branding elements
• Avoid visual competition with other marks

6.3 Accreditation Logos (Supplement 3)

SDAB provides specific logos for different accreditation activities:

• Certification Body logos
• Laboratory logos (testing and calibration)
• Inspection Body logos
• Proficiency Testing Provider logos
• Reference Material Producer logos
• Other specific scheme logos

Each accredited organization receives the specific logos relevant to their accreditation scope in high-resolution formats suitable for both print and digital use.

6.4 Combined Logo Examples (Supplement 4)

The combined logo for certificated clients features:

• Left side: Accredited organization’s logo
• Right side: Appropriate SDAB accreditation logo
• Clear visual separation between the two elements
• Balanced proportions
• Professional appearance suitable for various applications

Accredited organizations must provide this combined logo to clients rather than allowing clients to create their own versions.

Section 7: Compliance and Enforcement

7.1 Monitoring and Compliance

SDAB actively monitors the use of its accreditation marks and logos through:

• Regular surveillance of accredited organizations
• Investigation of reported misuse
• Market surveillance activities
• Digital monitoring of websites and online materials
• Review of materials during assessment visits

7.2 Consequences of Misuse

Misuse of SDAB marks and logos may result in:

• Formal written warnings
• Requirement for corrective actions within specified timeframes
• Publication of misuse notifications
• Suspension of accreditation
• Withdrawal of accreditation
• Legal action for copyright infringement
• Financial penalties in cases of deliberate misuse for commercial gain

7.3 Reporting Suspected Misuse

Any party suspecting misuse of SDAB marks or logos should:

• Document the suspected misuse (screenshots, photographs, copies of materials)
• Report to SDAB through the official channels
• Provide specific details including organization name, nature of misuse, and evidence
• SDAB will investigate all reports and take appropriate action

Section 8: Transition and Implementation Guidance

8.1 Transition to New Marks (2023 Refresh)

Organizations accredited prior to April 2, 2023, must:

• Review the transition timeline document provided by SDAB
• Develop an implementation plan for phasing out old marks
• Order new stationery and materials as existing stocks are depleted
• Update digital assets including websites, email signatures, and templates
• Communicate changes to staff, clients, and stakeholders
• Complete the transition within the specified timeframe

8.2 Implementation Best Practices

A. Inventory Assessment

• Conduct a comprehensive inventory of all materials bearing accreditation marks
• Categorize materials by type, quantity, and replacement urgency
• Develop a phased replacement plan prioritizing customer-facing materials

B. Staff Training

• Train all relevant staff on proper use of the new marks
• Provide clear guidelines and reference materials
• Designate responsible persons for mark usage compliance
• Include mark usage in quality management system procedures

C. Client Communication

• Inform clients about the mark refresh and timeline
• Provide updated logos to certificated clients
• Update template documents and certificates
• Include information on websites and in communications

Section 9: Seeking Further Guidance

9.1 Accredited Organizations

SDAB-accredited organizations with questions regarding the use of SDAB accreditation marks or logos should:

• First consult the comprehensive guidance documents provided by SDAB
• Contact the SDAB corporate office through sanatanboards.com
• Reach out to their local SDAB representative
• Attend SDAB workshops and information sessions on mark usage
• Review frequently asked questions on the SDAB portal

9.2 Certificated Clients and Students

Certificated clients or students with questions should:

• Contact their certificate-issuing body directly
• Request specific guidance on permitted uses of combined logos
• Seek clarification on any restrictions applicable to their situation
• Refer to guidance provided by their certification body

9.3 General Public and Interested Parties

Parties interested in understanding SDAB accreditation or reporting potential misuse should:

• Visit the SDAB website for general information
• Use the official contact channels for specific inquiries
• Review publicly available information about accredited organizations
• Verify accreditation status through the SDAB online directory

Conclusion

The proper use of SDAB accreditation marks and logos is essential to maintaining the integrity and value of the accreditation system. These visual symbols represent years of development, assessment, and commitment to quality by accredited organizations. Their appropriate use benefits all stakeholders by providing clear, reliable indicators of competence and conformity.

By following the comprehensive guidelines outlined in this document, SDAB-accredited organizations can effectively communicate their accredited status while protecting against misuse that could undermine confidence in the system. Regular review of these requirements, combined with ongoing staff training and compliance monitoring, will ensure that the marks continue to serve their important purpose in the global conformity assessment landscape.

The refreshed marks introduced in April 2023 represent SDAB’s commitment to maintaining a modern, recognizable identity while preserving the trust and recognition earned over many years of operation. All users of these marks share responsibility for upholding the standards they represent and protecting their significance in the marketplace.

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This document serves as comprehensive guidance for the use of SDAB accreditation marks and logos. In case of discrepancy between this guidance and formal SDAB requirements documents, the formal requirements shall prevail. SDAB reserves the right to modify these requirements with appropriate notice to accredited organizations.

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