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WWEC cover image for “Certification Mark Rules” — a brand portrait of a woman against a red-toned city skyline

Brand protection

Certification Mark Rules

The WWEC Women-Centred Workplace mark is a controlled symbol of achievement. It may be used only by organisations that hold valid WWEC certification and only within the approved scope.

WWEC Certification Mark Rules

Permitted use of WWEC certification marks.

The WWEC Certification Mark Rules define the permitted use of WWEC certification marks, certification status statements and related recognition identifiers.

Certified organisations may use applicable WWEC certification marks only in accordance with the current approved Certification Mark Rules.

Certification marks shall not be used in a manner that could misrepresent the scope, status or validity of certification.

Certification marks and certification status may be subject to review, suspension or withdrawal where certification status changes.

Permitted vs prohibited

Where the line sits.

The mark carries meaning only when it is used inside the certified scope and validity period. These two columns are the whole rule set in one view.

Permitted use
  • Use the WWEC Women-Centred Workplace mark only on materials that relate to the certified scope and validity period.
  • Display the certificate and mark in a way that is legible, accurate and not misleading.
  • Link the mark to the WWEC verification service so any party can confirm current status.
  • Use the approved mark artwork, colour versions and clear-space rules provided by WWEC.
Prohibited use
  • Use the mark after certification has expired, been suspended or withdrawn.
  • Imply that WWEC endorses a specific product, service, individual or political position.
  • Alter the mark, combine it with other symbols or use it in a way that weakens its distinctiveness.
  • Use the mark on materials that are defamatory, unlawful or inconsistent with the WWEC scheme values.
  • Transfer the right to use the mark to a non-certified entity or to a scope that is not certified.
Certified workplace communicating its recognition responsibly

Using the mark well

Accurate communication protects everyone.

Certified organisations are encouraged to publicise their achievement — on careers pages, reports, campaigns and offices — provided the claim matches the certified scope and remains verifiable at any moment.

Enforcement

How misuse is handled.

WWEC monitors mark use and responds to reports of misuse. The response is proportionate and follows the scheme's complaints and appeals procedures.

01

Notice of suspected misuse

02

Corrective action required

03

Status impact reviewed

Notice

The organisation is informed of the suspected misuse and given a reasonable opportunity to respond or correct it.

Corrective action

The organisation may be required to remove or amend the offending material and confirm compliance.

Status impact

Serious or repeated misuse may lead to suspension, withdrawal or other action under the Certification Policy.

The WWEC mark, logo and certification references are the property of Womenians Workplace Excellence Council™. Unauthorised use may be addressed through the scheme procedures and, where applicable, legal action to protect intellectual property.

Protect the Mark. Protect the Meaning.

Clear mark rules help every certified organisation communicate its achievement accurately and help the public trust what the symbol means.

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