1. Code of Conduct
1. Code of Conduct
ITICP Code of Conduct
The Institute of Testing, Inspection
and Certification Professionals
Version 1 approved by
the Board 17 April 2025
Introduction As a professional membership
organisation, the Institute of Testing, Inspection and Certification
Professionals (ITICP) sets clear expectations for the conduct and
professionalism of its members. This Code of Conduct outlines the standards
required of all members and represents a benchmark of ethical and professional
behaviour.
It is expected that these standards will exceed general
legal requirements and be upheld through disciplinary measures where necessary,
including suspension or removal from membership.
Members are responsible for applying sound professional
judgement in all activities, and are encouraged to seek guidance from ITICP in
cases of uncertainty.
Scope
- This
Code applies to all members of ITICP, regardless of grade, role, location,
or area of specialism. - It
applies to individual members and not to the organisations they may
represent or be employed by. - All
members are bound by this Code as a condition of ongoing membership.
1. Duty to the Public You shall:
- Prioritise
public safety, privacy, environmental sustainability, and overall
wellbeing in all professional activities. - Respect
the lawful rights of all parties affected by your work, including clients,
end-users, and the public. - Treat
others fairly and without discrimination based on sex, gender identity,
marital status, nationality, ethnicity, race, religion, age, disability,
or any other status. - Champion
accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities in the fields of
testing, inspection, and certification.
2. Professional Competence and Integrity You shall:
- Undertake
only those responsibilities for which you are competent and qualified. - Not
misrepresent your qualifications, experience, or capabilities. - Maintain
and develop your professional knowledge through continuous professional
development (CPD), staying up to date with relevant laws, standards, and
technological advancements. - Understand
and comply with all applicable legislation in your professional
activities. - Value
different perspectives, offer and accept honest feedback, and strive for
continual improvement. - Avoid
causing harm to individuals, organisations, property, or reputations
through negligence or misconduct. - Reject
and avoid offering or accepting bribes, unethical inducements, or
conflicts of interest.
3. Duty to Employers, Clients and Relevant Authorities
You shall:
- Carry
out your responsibilities diligently and in accordance with professional
judgement, even where this may differ from employer or client
expectations. - Disclose
any conflicts of interest that may arise in the course of your duties. - Take
personal responsibility for your work, and for the work of others you
supervise or mentor. - Maintain
confidentiality of information gained in a professional context, unless
legally or ethically required to disclose it. - Present
information truthfully and not exploit others’ lack of experience or
knowledge.
4. Duty to the Profession You shall:
- Uphold
and promote the reputation of the testing, inspection, and certification
profession. - Contribute
to the development and enforcement of professional standards and
practices. - Represent
ITICP positively and support its aims and values. - Act
with courtesy, respect, and integrity in all professional relationships. - Support
and encourage other professionals in their development and growth.
Leadership and Further Guidance If you are in a
leadership, supervisory or executive position, you are expected to:
- Encourage
and support the professional development of colleagues and those under
your guidance. - Ensure
individuals are not penalised for raising legitimate concerns, including
those relating to ethics or conflicts of interest. - Model
ethical behaviour and promote adherence to this Code within your teams and
organisations.
Interpretation and Additional Notes
- “Relevant
Authority” refers to any employer, client, regulator, or institution that
holds responsibility for or authority over the member’s work. - “Legislation”
refers to any laws, regulations, or standards relevant to the member’s
professional activities and jurisdictions of operation. - This
Code does not limit members from also complying with the codes of other
professional bodies, but such codes cannot override the obligations of
this Code.
Reporting and Disciplinary Action Members have a duty
to report any known or suspected breaches of this Code. Concerns may be raised
confidentially to ITICP. Breaches will be reviewed in accordance with ITICP’s
disciplinary process, and sanctions may include suspension or termination of
membership.
2. Complaints Policy
2. Complaints Policy
ITICP Complaints Policy
The Institute of Testing, Inspection
and Certification Professionals
Version 1 approved by
the Board 17 April 2025
1. Introduction This policy sets out the procedures
for handling complaints related to ITICP membership services, events,
qualifications, communications, or any other activity delivered or endorsed by
the Institute of Testing, Inspection and Certification Professionals (ITICP).
We take all complaints seriously and aim to resolve concerns
promptly, fairly, and transparently. Any person receiving a direct or indirect
service from ITICP is entitled to use this process.
2. Scope This policy applies to complaints from:
- ITICP
members (at any grade) - Applicants
- Event
participants - Members
of the public affected by an ITICP activity - Partner
organisations and stakeholders
Please note: Appeals concerning membership decisions or
disciplinary outcomes are subject to separate appeal procedures. See section 7.
3. How to Raise a Complaint We encourage resolution
at the earliest stage. In many cases, a concern can be resolved quickly by
contacting a relevant member of staff informally by phone or email.
If the issue cannot be resolved informally or you wish to
raise a formal complaint, please:
- Submit
your complaint in writing (via email or post) - Clearly
state that you are making a formal complaint
Your complaint will be directed to the appropriate team and
investigated accordingly.
4. What Information Should I Include? To help us
investigate your complaint effectively, please include:
- Your
full name and contact details - A
clear description of your complaint - Dates,
times, and names of any individuals involved (where known) - Supporting
documents or correspondence - Relevant
event, service or membership details
5. What Happens Next?
- We
will acknowledge your complaint within 3 working days of receipt - You
will be notified within a further 5 working days who will be
investigating your complaint - An
independent and impartial investigation will be conducted
We aim to respond within 20 working days of
appointing an investigator. If the matter is complex, we will keep you informed
with progress updates every 5 working days.
At the conclusion, we will contact you with a formal
decision and any actions taken.
6. Appeals If you are dissatisfied with the outcome
of your complaint, you may appeal the decision.
- Appeals
must be submitted in writing, stating clearly that you are appealing a
complaint outcome - Include
your reasons for appeal and any new evidence or relevant points
The appeal will be:
- Acknowledged
within 3 working days - Reviewed
by a senior member of ITICP not previously involved in the matter - Concluded
within 20 working days (unless otherwise advised)
The outcome of the appeal is final.
7. Related Policies and Processes Separate policies
exist for:
- Membership
application appeals - Disciplinary
investigations and sanctions - Whistleblowing
- Malpractice
or professional misconduct allegations
These can be accessed via the ITICP website or requested
from the Secretariat.
8. Contact Details Complaints and appeals should be
directed to:
The Secretariat
Institute of Testing, Inspection and Certification Professionals (ITICP)
631 Birchwood Boulevard
Birchwood, WA3 7QU
Email: info@it-icp.org.uk
9. Policy Review This policy will be reviewed
annually by the ITICP Board or designated governance committee and updated
based on feedback, regulatory guidance, or operational needs.
This policy is effective from the date of publication and
supersedes any previous complaints procedure issued by ITICP.
3. Data Protection & GDPR Policy
3. Data Protection & GDPR Policy
ITICP Data Protection and GDPR Policy
The Institute of Testing, Inspection
and Certification Professionals
Version 1 approved by
the Board 17 April 2025
1. Introduction The Institute of Testing, Inspection
and Certification Professionals (ITICP) is committed to protecting the privacy
and personal data of its members, partners, staff, volunteers, and
stakeholders. This Data Protection and GDPR Policy outlines how ITICP collects,
uses, stores, shares, and protects personal data in accordance with the UK
General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), the Data Protection Act 2018, and
any other relevant legislation.
2. Purpose This policy ensures:
- Compliance
with data protection law and best practices - Protection
of the rights of individuals whose data we process - Transparency
about how we handle personal data - Robust
and secure processing of personal information
3. Scope This policy applies to:
- All
ITICP staff, volunteers, trustees, committee members, and contractors - All
members and users of ITICP services - All
personal data processed by or on behalf of ITICP
4. Legal Basis for Processing ITICP will only process
personal data where there is a legal basis to do so. This includes:
- Consent:
where the individual has given clear permission - Contract:
to fulfil obligations of a membership or service agreement - Legal
obligation: to comply with legal or regulatory requirements - Legitimate
interest: for the operation and development of the Institute, where it
does not override individuals’ rights
5. Types of Data Collected We may collect and process
the following categories of personal data:
- Name,
contact details, and communication preferences - Membership
and application details - Employment
and qualifications history - Records
of training, events, and CPD - Financial
and payment details - Correspondence
and complaint records - Demographic
data (e.g. EDI data, on a voluntary basis)
Special category data (e.g. health or accessibility needs)
will only be processed with explicit consent or where required for essential
services.
6. Data Collection and Use Data is collected through:
- Membership
applications and renewals - Event
registrations and CPD submissions - Website
and online forms - Direct
communications and correspondence - Surveys,
consultations, and feedback forms
Data is used for purposes such as:
- Membership
administration - Communicating
with members - Organising
and evaluating events, training, and CPD - Managing
committees and working groups - Handling
complaints and disciplinary matters - Improving
services and conducting research
7. Data Sharing and Third Parties We only share
personal data with trusted third parties where:
- It
is necessary for service delivery (e.g. payment processors, event
platforms) - Required
by law or regulation - The
individual has given consent
All third parties are required to adhere to strict data
protection obligations. We do not sell or trade personal data under any
circumstances.
8. Data Storage and Security
- Personal
data is stored securely using encrypted systems and access controls - Paper
records are held in secure, access-restricted locations - ITICP
implements measures to prevent data breaches, including regular security
reviews and staff training
9. Data Retention ITICP retains personal data only as
long as necessary for the purposes it was collected. Retention periods are
based on:
- Legal,
regulatory, or contractual obligations - Legitimate
business needs - Member
expectations
After this period, data is securely deleted or anonymised.
10. Individual Rights Under UK GDPR, individuals have
the following rights:
- To
be informed about how their data is used - To
access their personal data (subject access request) - To
rectify inaccurate or incomplete data - To
request erasure (the ‘right to be forgotten’) - To
restrict or object to processing - To
data portability (in some cases)
Requests can be made in writing to the Data Protection
Officer (see contact details below). ITICP will respond within one calendar month.
11. Data Breaches ITICP takes all data breaches
seriously. In the event of a suspected breach:
- It
will be investigated promptly - Affected
individuals will be informed where required - The
Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) will be notified where applicable
12. Responsibilities
- Board
of Trustees: overall accountability for data protection - Data
Protection Officer (DPO): ensures compliance and handles queries - All
Staff and Volunteers: must follow this policy and report concerns
13. Training and Awareness
- All
ITICP staff, volunteers, and committee members receive data protection
training - Refresher
training is provided annually and when legislation changes - Guidance
and resources are made available to all members handling personal data
14. Policy Review This policy is reviewed annually or
as required by changes in law or operational practice.
15. Contact Information For questions or to exercise
your rights under this policy, contact:
Data Protection Officer
Institute of Testing, Inspection and Certification Professionals (ITICP)
631 Birchwood Boulevard
Birchwood, WA3 7QU
Email: dpo@iticp.org
This policy is effective from the date of publication and
supersedes any previous versions issued by ITICP.
4. Inclusivity Policy
4. Inclusivity Policy
ITICP Inclusivity Policy
The Institute of Testing, Inspection
and Certification Professionals
Version 1 approved by
the Board 17 April 2025
1. Statement of Commitment The Institute of Testing,
Inspection and Certification Professionals (ITICP) is committed to fostering a
culture of inclusivity, equality, and respect. We value diversity in all its
forms and believe that an inclusive environment leads to a stronger, more innovative,
and representative professional community.
2. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to:
- Promote
equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in all ITICP activities - Eliminate
discrimination, harassment, victimisation or any unfair treatment - Ensure
fair access to membership, services, events, and opportunities - Encourage
representation from underrepresented groups across the profession
3. Scope This policy applies to:
- All
members of ITICP - Applicants
for membership or participation in ITICP activities - Staff,
volunteers, and committee members - External
stakeholders and service users
It covers all functions of the Institute, including
governance, membership, events, communications, partnerships, and disciplinary
processes.
4. Policy Principles ITICP will:
- Provide
equal opportunities regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race,
ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion or belief, socio-economic
background, or any other characteristic protected by law - Ensure
inclusive language and imagery in publications, communications, and
learning materials - Promote
inclusive access to professional development, leadership roles, and
volunteering opportunities - Make
reasonable adjustments to support participation of individuals with
disabilities or additional needs - Champion
intersectionality and ensure our practices reflect lived experiences of
marginalised communities
5. Inclusive Practice in Action We will:
- Collect
and monitor EDI data (on a voluntary and anonymous basis) to inform policy
and improvement - Provide
EDI awareness training to staff, volunteers and committee members - Actively
seek to engage with and amplify voices from diverse backgrounds - Ensure
event venues (virtual or physical) are accessible and inclusive - Maintain
zero tolerance for discriminatory behaviour within the Institute or at
ITICP events
6. Responsibilities
- Board
of Trustees: Accountable for strategic oversight of inclusivity and
compliance - All
Committees: Responsible for embedding inclusivity in planning,
decision-making, and execution - Members
and Volunteers: Expected to uphold the values of this policy and
challenge inappropriate behaviour
7. Reporting and Resolution Any individual who
experiences or witnesses discrimination, harassment, or exclusion in the
context of ITICP activities is encouraged to report it to the Secretariat via:
Email: membership@iticp.org
All reports will be treated sensitively and investigated in line with our
complaints and disciplinary procedures.
8. Monitoring and Review This policy will be reviewed
annually and updated to reflect:
- Feedback
from members and stakeholders - Changes
in legislation - Good
practice and guidance from EDI bodies and professional institutions
9. Related Documents
- ITICP
Code of Conduct - Complaints
Policy - Membership
Policy - Disciplinary
Procedures
This Inclusivity Policy is effective from the date of
publication and applies to all activities, members, and representatives of
ITICP.
5. Membership Policy
5. Membership Policy
ITICP Membership Policy
The Institute of Testing, Inspection
and Certification Professionals
Version 1 approved by
the Board 17 April 2025
1. Introduction The Institute of Testing, Inspection
and Certification Professionals (ITICP) exists to promote excellence and
integrity within the fields of testing, inspection, and certification.
Membership of ITICP signifies a commitment to uphold the highest standards of
professionalism, technical competence, and ethical conduct.
This policy outlines the membership structure, eligibility
criteria, application process, progression routes, member responsibilities, and
the benefits associated with each level of membership.
2. Membership Levels ITICP offers four distinct
membership levels:
- Affiliate
- Associate
- Member
- Fellow
Each level recognises the individual’s qualifications,
experience, and professional contributions.
3. Membership Criteria
3.1 Affiliate Affiliates are individuals with an
interest in the testing, inspection or certification sectors who may not yet
meet the professional criteria for higher grades. This includes:
- Students
in relevant fields - Professionals
new to the sector - Individuals
exploring career pathways
3.2 Associate Associates are early-career
professionals or practitioners who are actively working in the field.
Eligibility includes:
- A
minimum of 1 year of relevant professional experience - A
recognised qualification or training in a relevant subject
3.3 Member Members have demonstrated competence,
professionalism, and ethical practice. Eligibility includes:
- A
minimum of 3 years of relevant experience - Recognised
technical or academic qualifications (e.g. Level 4 NVQ or equivalent) - Evidence
of continued professional development (CPD) - Endorsement
by a professional peer or supervisor
3.4 Fellow Fellowship is the highest level of ITICP
membership and is awarded to senior professionals who have made a significant
contribution to the field. Criteria include:
- At
least 10 years of professional experience - Demonstrated
leadership or innovation in the sector - Contribution
to the development of standards, mentoring, education, or thought
leadership - Nominated
by two current ITICP Members or Fellows
4. Application Process
- Applications
must be submitted via the official ITICP platform. - All
applicants must agree to adhere to the ITICP Code of Conduct. - Supporting
documentation (e.g., CVs, certificates, CPD logs) must accompany
applications. - Applications
will be reviewed by the Membership Committee. - Successful
applicants will be issued with a digital certificate and member badge
corresponding to their level.
5. Membership Responsibilities All members must:
- Uphold
the ITICP Code of Conduct - Maintain
professional and ethical behaviour - Participate
in ongoing professional development - Promote
the aims and values of ITICP - Inform
ITICP of any changes in professional status or conduct issues
6. CPD and Progression Members are encouraged to
maintain an annual CPD record and seek opportunities for development.
Progression through membership levels is supported and encouraged, with members
eligible to apply for upgrade as they meet new criteria.
7. Use of Post-Nominals Members may use the following
post-nominal letters:
- Affiliate:
No post-nominals - Associate:
AITICP - Member:
MITICP - Fellow:
FITICP
8. Member Benefits All ITICP members gain access to:
- A
recognised professional network - Opportunities
for professional development - Access
to technical resources and industry updates - Use
of membership logo for professional promotion (subject to terms) - Events,
webinars, and discussion forums - Participation
in working groups and committees
9. Termination or Suspension of Membership ITICP
reserves the right to suspend or terminate membership for:
- Breaches
of the Code of Conduct - Failure
to maintain eligibility criteria - Non-payment
of membership dues (where applicable)
Members have the right to appeal decisions via ITICP’s
formal complaints or appeals process.
10. Review and Governance This policy will be
reviewed annually by the ITICP Membership Committee to ensure it remains
current and reflective of professional standards.
This Membership Policy is effective from the date of
publication and applies to all new and existing members of the Institute of
Testing, Inspection and Certification Professionals.
6. Terms & Conditions
6. Terms & Conditions
ITICP Membership Terms and Conditions
The Institute of Testing, Inspection
and Certification Professionals
Version 1 approved by
the Board 17 April 2025
1. Introduction These Terms and Conditions govern the
rights, obligations, and responsibilities of individuals applying for and
maintaining membership with the Institute of Testing, Inspection and
Certification Professionals (ITICP). By applying for or renewing membership,
individuals agree to abide by these Terms in full.
2. Membership Eligibility
- Membership
is open to individuals who meet the criteria outlined in the ITICP
Membership Policy. - Applicants
must provide accurate, complete, and up-to-date information. - ITICP
reserves the right to refuse or revoke membership where criteria are not
met or where conduct is deemed inappropriate.
3. Membership Categories
- Affiliate
- Associate
(AITICP) - Member
(MITICP) - Fellow
(FITICP) Each category has specific entry requirements and associated
benefits, as detailed in the Membership Policy.
4. Membership Obligations All members are required
to:
- Comply
with the ITICP Code of Conduct at all times - Maintain
an accurate member profile with up-to-date contact and employment
information - Notify
ITICP of any changes in professional standing that may affect membership
eligibility - Participate
in continuous professional development (CPD) as appropriate - Conduct
themselves in a professional and ethical manner, upholding the reputation
of ITICP and the wider profession
5. Payment of Fees
- Where
applicable, membership fees must be paid in full at the time of
application or renewal. - Membership
is valid for 12 months from the date of approval or renewal. - Non-payment
of fees may result in suspension or termination of membership.
6. Use of Post-Nominals and Logos
- Members
may use the appropriate post-nominal (AITICP, MITICP, FITICP) only while
their membership remains active and in good standing. - Members
may use official ITICP membership logos in accordance with branding
guidelines provided by ITICP. - Misuse
of titles, designations or logos may result in disciplinary action.
7. Data Protection and Privacy
- ITICP
processes personal data in accordance with relevant data protection laws
and its own Privacy Policy. - Member
information will not be shared with third parties without consent, except
where legally required. - Members
have the right to access and update their personal data at any time.
8. Conduct and Disciplinary Action
- Breaches
of the Code of Conduct or these Terms and Conditions may result in
disciplinary action, including warnings, suspension, or expulsion. - Members
have the right to appeal decisions in accordance with ITICP’s disciplinary
procedure.
9. Cancellation and Termination
- Members
may cancel their membership at any time by notifying ITICP in writing. - Refunds
will not be issued unless required by law. - ITICP
reserves the right to terminate membership where conditions are not met or
where actions bring the organisation into disrepute.
10. Changes to Terms and Conditions
- ITICP
reserves the right to amend these Terms and Conditions at any time. - Members
will be notified of significant changes via email and the ITICP website. - Continued
membership constitutes acceptance of any updates to these Terms.
11. Governing Law These Terms and Conditions are
governed by the laws of England and Wales. Disputes shall be subject to the
exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.
These Terms and Conditions are effective from the date of
publication and apply to all current and prospective members of ITICP.
7. Terms of Reference
7. Terms of Reference
ITICP Terms of Reference
The Institute of Testing, Inspection
and Certification Professionals
Version 1 approved by
the Board 17 April 2025
1. Purpose The purpose of the Terms of Reference is
to define the scope, structure, roles, and responsibilities of the governing
bodies, committees, and members of the Institute of Testing, Inspection and
Certification Professionals (ITICP). It ensures that all parties operate with
clarity, transparency, and accountability in pursuit of the Institute’s mission
and strategic objectives.
2. Governance Structure The governance of ITICP shall
include the following bodies:
- The
Board of Trustees - The
Membership Committee - The
Professional Standards and Ethics Committee - The
CPD and Education Committee - Task-specific
Working Groups (as required)
Each group operates under these Terms of Reference and any
supporting policies or frameworks approved by the Board.
3. The Board of Trustees
3.1 Role:
- Provide
strategic direction and oversight - Approve
policies, budgets, and governance documents - Ensure
compliance with legal and regulatory obligations
3.2 Composition:
- Chair
- Vice
Chair - Treasurer
- Elected
Trustees (minimum of 3) - Up
to 2 Co-opted Trustees
3.3 Meetings:
- Held
quarterly (minimum) - Quorum:
50% of voting members
3.4 Responsibilities:
- Safeguard
the reputation and resources of ITICP - Appoint
and oversee committees - Review
and approve annual plans and reports - Uphold
the ITICP Constitution and Code of Conduct
4. Membership Committee
4.1 Role:
- Assess
and approve membership applications - Monitor
adherence to membership policy - Review
and recommend upgrades or removals
4.2 Composition:
- Chair
(appointed by the Board) - At
least two other Members or Fellows - May
include external advisors as required
4.3 Meetings:
- Monthly
or as required
5. Professional Standards and Ethics Committee
5.1
Role:
- Promote
ethical conduct and best practice - Investigate
alleged breaches of the Code of Conduct - Advise
on disciplinary actions and appeals
5.2 Composition:
- Chair
(appointed by the Board) - Minimum
of 3 Members or Fellows - May
include legal or regulatory advisors
5.3 Responsibilities:
- Maintain
and review the Code of Conduct - Oversee
complaints and whistleblowing procedures - Ensure
fair and impartial handling of disciplinary cases
6. CPD and Education Committee
6.1 Role:
- Support
professional development through CPD initiatives - Promote
training, events, and knowledge-sharing - Liaise
with training providers and academic bodies
6.2 Composition:
- Chair
(appointed by the Board) - At
least 2 members with education/training experience - May
include representatives from academia and industry
6.3 Responsibilities:
- Maintain
CPD policy and reporting framework - Approve
CPD activities and providers - Advise
on educational content and standards
7. Working Groups
7.1 Role:
- Address
specific projects, consultations or emerging issues - Report
findings and recommendations to the appropriate committee
7.2 Composition:
- Members
and external contributors appointed for relevant expertise - Temporary
or permanent depending on purpose
7.3 Reporting:
- Submit
updates and final reports to the relevant committee or Board
8. Code of Conduct All committee and working group
members must abide by the ITICP Code of Conduct and declare any conflicts of
interest prior to participation.
9. Confidentiality Members involved in governance,
review, or disciplinary activities must maintain confidentiality and handle
sensitive information with care.
10. Review and Amendments These Terms of Reference
will be reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees. Amendments must be approved
by a quorum of the Board.
These Terms of Reference come into effect upon approval
by the Board of Trustees and apply to all formal ITICP activities and
governance functions.
8. Conflicts of Interest Policy
8. Conflicts of Interest Policy
Conflicts Of Interest Policy
The Institute of Testing, Inspection
and Certification Professionals
Version 1 approved by
the Board on 9 June 2025
1. Policy Statement
The Institute of Testing, Inspection & Certification
Professionals (“ITICP”) is committed to maintaining the highest
standards of integrity, objectivity, and professionalism. All directors,
members, staff, and associated personnel must avoid situations where personal
interests conflict or appear to conflict with their responsibilities to ITICP.
A conflict of interest arises when a person’s judgment or
actions in their role within ITICP could be influenced by personal, financial,
or other external interests.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
- Define
what constitutes a conflict of interest. - Set
out procedures for declaring and managing conflicts. - Ensure
transparency, accountability, and good governance across ITICP operations.
3. Scope
This policy applies to:
- Directors
- Officers
and employees - Committee
and working group members - Consultants,
advisors, and contractors - Any
person acting on behalf of ITICP
4. Definition Of A Conflict Of Interest
A conflict of interest arises where one or more persons have
competing interests, which might impair their ability to make objective,
unbiased decisions and serving one interest involves potential harm to the
other.
A conflict of interest may be:
- Financial
– where a person could gain financially from their role or decisions. - Non-financial
– where personal relationships, affiliations, or loyalties may affect
impartiality. - Direct
or Indirect – involving the individual or a close family member,
friend, or associated organisation.
Examples include:
- Awarding
contracts to a business in which you or a close associate have an
interest. - Using
confidential ITICP information for personal advantage. - Holding
a decision-making position in another organisation with overlapping
activities.
5. Disclosure Of Interests
- All
directors and relevant persons must declare actual or potential conflicts
of interest as soon as they arise. - An
annual declaration of interests shall be completed by all directors and
key personnel. - Declarations
must be recorded in the ITICP Register of Interests maintained by the
Secretariat.
6. Management Of Conflicts
Once a conflict is declared:
- The
person must withdraw from any discussion or decision related to the
matter. - The
Chair or a designated officer shall determine the appropriate action (e.g.
exclusion from voting, reassignment of duties). - Where
necessary, legal or ethical guidance may be sought to manage complex
cases.
7. Failure To Disclose
Failure to disclose a conflict of interest may result in:
- Disciplinary
action - Termination
of membership, contract, or position - Reputational
or legal consequences for ITICP and the individual involved
8. Responsibilities
- Board
of Directors – ensures overall compliance and oversight. - Chair
of the Board – reviews complex disclosures and determines actions. - All
personnel – must be proactive in declaring and managing conflicts.
9. Review
This policy will be reviewed at least annually by the Board
and updated where necessary.
This Conflicts of Interests Policy is effective from the
date of publication and applies to all activities, members, and representatives
of ITICP.
9. Bribery & Corruption Policy
9. Bribery & Corruption Policy
Bribery & Corruption Policy
The Institute of Testing, Inspection
and Certification Professionals
Version 1 approved by
the Board 9 June 2025
1. Policy Statement
The Institute of Testing, Inspection & Certification
Professionals (“ITICP”) is committed to conducting all its activities
with the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability.
ITICP has a zero-tolerance approach to bribery and corruption and is committed
to upholding all relevant laws, including the Bribery Act 2010.
Bribery is the offering, promising, giving, accepting or
soliciting of an advantage as an inducement for action which is illegal,
unethical, or a breach of trust. It is a criminal offence and may result in
disciplinary action, legal proceedings, and reputational damage.
Corruption is the abuse of entrusted power for private gain
and involves dishonest or fraudulent conduct, typically involving bribery.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
- Set
out ITICP’s responsibilities in observing and upholding its position on
bribery and corruption. - Provide
guidance to those working for or with ITICP on recognising and dealing
with bribery and corruption issues. - Ensure
compliance with the Bribery Act 2010 and related legislation.
3. Scope
This policy applies to:
- All
members, directors, officers, staff, consultants, and contractors acting
on behalf of ITICP. - Any
third parties who perform services for or on behalf of ITICP.
4. Prohibited Conduct
ITICP prohibits:
- Offering,
promising, giving, or accepting bribes in any form. - Making
facilitation payments or unofficial payments to public officials. - Offering
or accepting gifts or hospitality intended to influence a decision or
outcome. - Engaging
in any activity that could be perceived as corrupt or improper.
5. Gifts And Hospitality
- Gifts
and hospitality must be reasonable, proportionate, and for legitimate
purposes (e.g. business development or goodwill). - Any
gifts or hospitality exceeding a value of £50 must be declared to the
Board. - Under
no circumstances may gifts or hospitality be offered or accepted during
active tendering or procurement processes.
6. Responsibilities
- The
Board of Directors has overall responsibility for ensuring compliance with
this policy. - All
individuals within the scope of this policy are responsible for: - Reading,
understanding, and complying with this policy. - Reporting
any concerns or suspicions of bribery or corruption.
7. Reporting Concerns
- Suspected
bribery or breaches of this policy must be reported immediately to the
Chair or a designated Board member. - ITICP
will support anyone who raises concerns in good faith and will ensure no
retaliation or adverse treatment.
8. Training And Awareness
- All
relevant personnel will receive periodic training on anti-bribery and
corruption. - This
policy shall be made publicly available and form part of the induction
process for new directors, staff, and consultants.
9. Breaches Of This Policy
- Any
breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and
including removal of membership or termination of contract. - Breaches
may also result in legal action or notification to relevant authorities.
10. Review And Monitoring
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Board and
updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation or business practices.
This Bribery & Corruption Policy is effective from
the date of publication and applies to all activities, members, and
representatives of ITICP.