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Enforcement Framework Overview

Enforcement Framework Overview

Qelvea Refined Finish Index™

This page provides an overview of how Qelvea Standards enforces correct use of the Qelvea Refined Finish Index™ (RFI).

The enforcement framework exists to protect:

  • the integrity of the standard
  • licensed users who comply with its requirements
  • public understanding of what accreditation represents

Enforcement is applied fairly, proportionately, and consistently.

Purpose of the Enforcement Framework

The enforcement framework is designed to:

  • prevent misrepresentation or misuse of the RFI
  • ensure licensed use remains accurate and time-limited
  • address unauthorised references in a structured way
  • provide transparency around how issues are handled

It does not exist to punish or deter, but to maintain clarity.

Scope of Enforcement

The framework applies to:

  • applicants
  • accredited licensees
  • former licensees
  • third parties referencing the RFI

Enforcement relates solely to use of the RFI name, wording, and marks, not to professional skill or service quality.

What Is Enforced

Enforcement covers:

  • correct representation of accreditation status
  • correct use of approved wording and marks
  • adherence to licensed scope and validity periods
  • avoidance of misleading implications (e.g. regulation, endorsement, guarantees)

Enforcement Structure (How It Fits Together)

The enforcement framework operates through four connected components:

1️⃣ Licensed Use Terms

Define:

  • what licensed users may and may not do
  • how accreditation may be referenced
  • conditions of validity, renewal, and withdrawal

Licensed use exists only while accreditation is valid.

2️⃣ Misuse & Enforcement Policy

Explains:

  • what constitutes misuse
  • how misuse is identified
  • the graduated enforcement approach

This ensures enforcement is predictable and proportionate.

3️⃣ Unauthorised Use Fee Schedule

Sets out:

  • when administrative fees may apply
  • fee categories and amounts
  • proportional application principles

Fees:

  • represent a genuine pre-estimate of administrative and reputational cost
  • are not penalties
  • do not grant or reinstate licensed use

4️⃣ Appeals & Complaints Process

Provides:

  • a route to raise procedural concerns
  • review of proportionality and process
  • transparency around outcomes

Appeals do not reassess stylistic or professional judgement.

Enforcement Approach

Enforcement is graduated, taking into account:

  • intent
  • duration of misuse
  • impact on public understanding
  • responsiveness to correction requests

Typical responses may include:

  1. clarification or correction request
  2. formal notice
  3. suspension of licensed use
  4. withdrawal of accreditation
  5. application of unauthorised use fees

Not all cases progress through every stage.

Proportionality & Fairness

Qelvea Standards is committed to:

  • applying enforcement proportionately
  • avoiding arbitrary or automatic penalties
  • ensuring decisions follow published governance processes

All actions are documented and reviewable.

Transparency & Public Protection

Transparency is supported through:

  • published policies and terms
  • clear advertising wording requirements
  • public register listings (where applicable)

Public register listings:

  • indicate recognition only
  • do not constitute endorsement or recommendation
  • may be updated or removed as status changes

Limitations of Enforcement

Enforcement under the RFI:

  • does not constitute regulation
  • does not replace legal remedies
  • does not guarantee outcomes
  • applies only to use of the private professional standard

Related Documents

This framework should be read alongside:

  • Licensed Use Terms
  • Misuse & Enforcement
  • Unauthorised Use Fee Schedule
  • Appeals & Complaints

Together, these documents form the complete enforcement system.

Qelvea Refined Finish Index™

Maintaining clarity through proportionate governance.

START
│
▼
Potential Misuse Identified
│
├─ Source:
│ • Routine monitoring
│ • Public or professional report
│ • Register review
│
▼
Initial Review
(Objective, evidence-based)
│
├─ Is there a credible issue?
│ │
│ ├─ NO → Case closed (no action)
│ │
│ └─ YES
│
▼
Misuse Categorised
│
├─ Minor / Correctable
├─ Moderate
├─ Extended
└─ Deliberate / Repeated
│
▼
Proportionate Response Selected
│
├─ Clarification or Correction Request
│
├─ Formal Notice Issued
│
├─ Suspension of Licensed Use
│
├─ Withdrawal of Accreditation
│
└─ Application of Unauthorised Use Fee
│
▼
Corrective Action Required
│
├─ Misuse corrected?
│ │
│ ├─ YES → Case resolved
│ │
│ └─ NO
│
▼
Escalation (If Necessary)
│
├─ Further enforcement action
├─ Additional fees (where proportionate)
└─ Register update or removal
│
▼
Right to Review
(Appeals & Complaints Process)
│
├─ Procedural review only
├─ Proportionality assessed
└─ Final decision issued
│
▼
END

KEY PRINCIPLES

  • Enforcement is graduated and proportionate
  • Fees are administrative, not penalties
  • Payment does not grant or reinstate licensed use
  • Appeals assess procedure, not aesthetic judgement
  • The RFI is a private professional standard