Certification Suspension, Reduction or Withdrawal Policy

This policy provides guidance on in the event of violation of terms and conditions for certification to ensure that SAC&C certification remains credible. SAC&C may impose sanctions if the certification holder fails to observe the conditions of the certification, or the certification agreement conditions.

 Situations that lead to sanctions being applied to client organisations have been highlighted in the procedure certification agreement and it include but are not limited to:

  • Failure to satisfactorily resolve nonconformities and complaints
  • Misuse of certification mark(s) and non-payment of applicable certification fees.

 The sanctions may also be voluntarily requested by a client to the management with reasons.

 Sanctions available include but are not limited to:

  • ntensification of surveillance activities
  • Reduction of certification scope, suspension, withdrawal
  • Public notice and/or legal actions.

 The procedure QMS/SRWC-01 also highlights the process to be followed and conditions when under sanctions and for reinstatement.

 The client shall be served with a written notice stating the grounds for the sanctions and be given an opportunity to be heard. The suspension period shall not exceed 6 months. Failure to resolve the issues that resulted in the suspension in time may lead to withdrawal of certification. Certification shall be terminated upon request of the client when the company liquidates, or the production of certain products or provision of services is stopped. If the certification validity has ended and the client has not renewed or applied for renewal the certification shall be automatically withdrawn.