The SABS Approved Mark

The Fundamentals of Product Certification - SANS 17067

SANS 17067:2014 outlines the basics of product certification and provides guidelines for certification schemes. The term “product” also refers to “services” or “processes.”

Products can raise concerns for purchasers, users, and society, such as safety, health, environmental impact, durability, compatibility, and suitability for their intended use. These concerns are usually addressed through standards that specify required product attributes.

The product supplier must demonstrate that the product meets the standards. In some cases, the supplier’s declaration of conformity may suffice, but in other instances, a competent, impartial third party, like SABS, may be required to assess and verify conformity.

Product certification involves third-party assessment to confirm that specified requirements are met. SANS 17067:2014 details how product certification schemes should be structured and managed, highlighting common assessment techniques like testing, inspection, and auditing.

Functions and Activities in Product Certification Schemes

Product certification schemes are developed by defining specific activities for each of the applicable functions. The Table below shows how to build a product certification scheme by using these functions and outlines some of the combinations of activities in use in the wide range of fields where product certification is employed. The types of product certification schemes in this Table are further described below.

Warning against the illicit use of the SABS Mark

The presence of the SABS Mark on a product serves as an assurance of quality and a confirmation of conformity to established specifications. Products that are authorised to affix the SABS Mark undergo rigorous product testing and, in addition, their manufacturing facilities are subjected to regular surveillance by a team of SABS specialist auditors.

Unlawful Use of the SABS Mark

The SABS frequently becomes aware of manufacturers affixing the SABS Mark to their products without obtaining the requisite permit. This practice is not only unlawful but also constitutes a serious non-compliance with legislation, misleading the public.

The most recent case that has come to the attention of the SABS involves a manufacturer affixing a counterfeit "SABS Mark" to electrical cables. This practice is widespread, particularly across online channels. The mark on these products is not genuine and is deliberately misleading.

The increasing importation of non-compliant electrical cables into the South African market poses a significant risk, with safety concerns expected to escalate. Electrical contractors, as responsible persons, must ensure they use cabling that complies with compulsory standards. These standards are made compulsory specifically in the interest of public safety.

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Legal Consequences and Reporting Mechanism

Any entity found using the SABS Mark without a valid permit will face legal consequences. The public is strongly encouraged to report any suspected illicit use of the SABS Mark through the whistleblower hotline of the SABS – details are provided below. All claims will be investigated, and enforcement actions will be taken where necessary.

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Whistleblower hotline:

Email: [email protected]

Website:?https://www.thehotline.co.za/report?

0800 204 459 to report

SMS: 30916

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For other enquiries:

[email protected]

Itumeleng Mphahlele ??????????????????????? Mpodi Manaka MBA, MDP (B-BBEE)

071?333 2389????????????????????????????????????? 083?604 3111