Independent Audit & Certification

Visual Governance

Use of certificates and marks

BSQC certified organisations and individuals must adhere to exact display and reproduction parameters to ensure certificate holders remain transparent and do not mislead markets.

Enforcement Policy

BSQC may require correction, removal, public clarification, suspension, withdrawal or legal action where a certificate, mark or claim is misused. Suspected fraud may be reported to relevant authorities and affected stakeholders where legally permitted.

Permitted use

Use the certificate and BSQC mark only during the active period and within the stated scope.
Reproduce the mark in approved colours, proportions and minimum size.
Make clear whether certification applies to a management system, person, product, process or service.
Include the certificate number where BSQC rules require it.
Stop or amend claims immediately following suspension, withdrawal, expiry or scope reduction.

Prohibited use

Using the ISO logo or implying that ISO issued or approved the certificate.
Using the UKAS symbol unless expressly authorised and within the accredited scope and applicable rules.
Placing a management-system certification mark directly on a product or in a way that implies product certification.
Suggesting that certification covers activities, locations, standards or people outside the certificate.
Altering certificate wording, dates, scope, number, logos or status.
Continuing to advertise suspended, withdrawn or expired certification as valid.
Using an individual credential to imply statutory licence, organisational certification or authority outside the scheme.

Resolution Routes

Complaints and appeals

We operate structured and transparent procedures to investigate service concerns or request re-evaluation of audit decisions.

Complaint or appeal?

Route	Use it when
Complaint	You are dissatisfied with BSQC service, conduct, delay, communication, a certified client, a certified person or misuse of a certificate.
Appeal	You ask BSQC to reconsider a specific certification, examination, suspension, withdrawal or scope decision affecting you.

How to submit

Email complaints@[domain] or appeals@[domain], or use the secure online form. Include your name and contact details, the organisation or candidate concerned, relevant certificate/application number, the decision or conduct at issue, dates, evidence and the outcome requested. Anonymous information may be reviewed, but anonymity can limit investigation and response.

Appeal independence

An appeal will not be decided solely by the person who made or participated in the original decision. Submitting an appeal will not result in discriminatory action. Unless scheme rules state otherwise, the original decision remains effective while the appeal is considered.

Our process

Acknowledge receipt normally within five working days.
Confirm whether the matter is a complaint, appeal, request for correction or other enquiry.
Check conflicts and appoint competent personnel not involved in the subject matter, where practicable.
Gather and assess relevant evidence fairly and confidentially.
Provide progress information when the matter cannot be completed promptly.
Communicate the outcome, reasons and any action that may lawfully be disclosed.
Record, trend and review matters for corrective action and improvement.

Target timescale: BSQC aims to close straightforward matters within 30 calendar days. Complex matters may take longer; if so, the complainant or appellant will receive an explanation and updated target date.

Escalation: If the matter relates to an accredited activity and remains unresolved after BSQC’s process, the party may contact the relevant accreditation body using the route stated in the final response. This does not remove any statutory right or remedy.

Integrity & Rules