Terms of Use

Effective date: 1 July 2025

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing, browsing, or using the International Vital Code Association ("IVCA") website located at ivca.ie (the "Website") and any services made available through it (collectively, the "Services"), you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms of Use ("Terms"). These Terms constitute a legally binding agreement between you ("you", "your", "User") and IVCA ("we", "us", "our").

If you do not agree to all of these Terms, you must not access or use the Website or any of its Services. Your continued use of the Website following the posting of any amendments to these Terms shall constitute your acceptance of such amendments.

These Terms should be read in conjunction with our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy, which also govern your use of the Website.

2. About IVCA

The International Vital Code Association is the professional membership body for practitioners of the Vital Code method. IVCA is dedicated to maintaining and advancing professional standards in the Vital Code discipline through credentialing, continuing professional development, public education, and the promotion of best practice among its members.

IVCA maintains a register of qualified practitioners, sets educational and ethical standards for the profession, and provides resources to support both practitioners and the public. The organisation operates from Ireland and serves members and the public internationally.

3. Services Provided

IVCA provides the following through the Website and related platforms:

  • Information and Education — General information about the Vital Code profession, IVCA's role as a professional body, educational resources, news articles, and event listings designed to inform both practitioners and the public.
  • Public Practitioner Directory — A searchable directory enabling members of the public to find IVCA-registered practitioners. Listings include practitioner names, credential levels, practice locations, and other professional details voluntarily provided by members.
  • Credential Verification Service — A publicly accessible tool allowing anyone to verify the current registration status and credential level of an individual claiming to hold IVCA certification.
  • Membership Application and Management — Online facilities enabling prospective and existing members to apply for membership, renew their registration, update their professional details, and manage their account.
  • CPD Tracking and Credential Management — A member-only area where registered practitioners can log continuing professional development activities, track progress towards CPD requirements, and manage their credential status.
  • Events and Training — Information about IVCA-organised and IVCA-endorsed workshops, seminars, conferences, and training programmes, including online registration where available.

IVCA reserves the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue any part of the Services at any time without prior notice. We shall not be liable to you or any third party for any such modification, suspension, or discontinuation.

4. User Accounts

4.1 Registration

Certain features of the Website require you to create an account. When registering, you agree to provide accurate, current, and complete information and to update such information as necessary to keep it accurate and complete. You must not create an account using false or misleading information or on behalf of another person without their express authorisation.

4.2 Account Security

You are solely responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials, including your password. You agree to notify IVCA immediately at info@vitalcodeassociation.com if you become aware of any unauthorised use of your account or any other breach of security. IVCA shall not be liable for any loss or damage arising from your failure to safeguard your account credentials.

4.3 Suspension and Termination

IVCA reserves the right to suspend or terminate your account at any time if we reasonably believe that you have breached these Terms, provided false or misleading information, engaged in conduct that is harmful to IVCA or its members, or for any other lawful reason. Where practicable, we will provide notice before suspending or terminating an account, but we are not obliged to do so in cases of serious or urgent concern.

5. Membership Terms

5.1 Application Process

Membership of IVCA is open to individuals who meet the eligibility criteria as published on the Website from time to time. All applications are subject to review and approval by IVCA. Submission of an application does not guarantee acceptance. IVCA reserves the right to refuse any application at its sole discretion and is not obliged to provide reasons for refusal.

5.2 Membership Fees

Members are required to pay annual membership fees as set by IVCA. Fee amounts and payment schedules are published on the Website and may be updated from time to time. Fees are non-refundable unless otherwise stated. Failure to pay fees by the due date may result in suspension of membership privileges, removal from the practitioner directory, and ultimately lapse of membership status.

5.3 Renewal

Membership is subject to annual renewal. IVCA will use reasonable efforts to send renewal reminders, but it is ultimately the member's responsibility to ensure timely renewal. Lapsed memberships may be reinstated subject to any conditions IVCA deems appropriate, which may include payment of arrears or completion of additional CPD requirements.

5.4 Member Obligations

As a member of IVCA, you agree to: maintain accurate and up-to-date profile information; comply with IVCA's Code of Ethics and Professional Standards; fulfil ongoing CPD requirements; conduct yourself in a manner that upholds the reputation of the profession and the Association; and cooperate with any IVCA investigation or disciplinary process. Breach of these obligations may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or revocation of membership and credentials.

6. Practitioner Directory and Verification

6.1 Purpose

The practitioner directory and credential verification service are provided as a convenience to members of the public seeking information about IVCA-registered practitioners. These tools are intended to help the public make informed decisions but do not constitute a recommendation, endorsement, or guarantee of any individual practitioner's competence or suitability.

6.2 Accuracy of Information

The information displayed in the practitioner directory and verification system is based on data provided by members and records maintained by IVCA. While IVCA takes reasonable steps to ensure that this information is accurate and current, we do not warrant or guarantee that all information is complete, up to date, or free from error. Registration status and credential levels are subject to change, and there may be a delay between any change in a practitioner's status and the update of the directory or verification system.

6.3 Reliance Limitations

Users of the directory and verification service should not rely solely on the information provided through these tools when making decisions about engaging a practitioner. We strongly recommend that you verify information directly with the practitioner, request evidence of current registration where appropriate, and make your own independent enquiries before engaging any practitioner's services. IVCA accepts no liability for any decision made or action taken in reliance on information obtained through the directory or verification service.

7. CPD and Certification

7.1 CPD Obligations

All IVCA-registered practitioners are required to undertake a minimum amount of continuing professional development each year as specified in the CPD requirements published on the Website. It is each member's responsibility to ensure they understand the current requirements and to log their CPD activities accurately and in a timely manner using the tools provided.

7.2 CPD Tracking

IVCA provides an online CPD tracking facility as part of its member Services. Members are responsible for the accuracy and completeness of the information they record. IVCA may audit CPD records at any time and may require supporting evidence of activities claimed. Submission of false or misleading CPD records constitutes a serious breach of these Terms and IVCA's Code of Ethics.

7.3 Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to meet CPD requirements within the prescribed timeframe may result in one or more of the following actions: notification of non-compliance and a grace period to remedy the shortfall; suspension of your credential status and removal from the practitioner directory; requirement to complete additional CPD activities before reinstatement; or, in cases of persistent or serious non-compliance, revocation of your IVCA credential. IVCA will endeavour to communicate with affected members before taking action, but retains sole discretion in determining the appropriate response.

8. Intellectual Property

8.1 IVCA Marks and Branding

The IVCA name, logo, and all associated branding elements are the intellectual property of the International Vital Code Association. These marks may not be used, reproduced, or displayed without the prior written consent of IVCA, except as expressly permitted under these Terms or IVCA's brand guidelines issued to members from time to time.

8.2 Website Content

All content published on the Website, including but not limited to text, articles, graphics, images, page layouts, design elements, documents, and downloadable materials, is the property of IVCA or its licensors and is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, modify, create derivative works from, publicly display, or otherwise exploit any Website content without the prior written permission of IVCA, except for personal, non-commercial use such as printing a single copy for your own reference.

8.3 Credential Designations

IVCA credential designations (including post-nominal letters and certification titles) are proprietary designations owned by IVCA. The right to use these designations is granted solely to members who hold the relevant current, valid credential and is subject to the conditions set out in Section 9 below.

9. Use of IVCA Credential Designations

9.1 Authorised Use

Only individuals who hold a current, valid IVCA credential in good standing are permitted to use the associated credential designation (e.g., post-nominal letters). Authorised members may use their credential designation on business cards, professional correspondence, websites, and other materials directly related to their professional practice, provided such use accurately represents their current credential level.

9.2 Restrictions

You must not use any IVCA credential designation in a manner that is misleading, that implies a credential level you do not hold, or that suggests IVCA endorsement of any product, service, or activity beyond the scope of IVCA registration. Credential designations must not be used in any way that could bring IVCA or the Vital Code profession into disrepute.

9.3 Consequences of Misuse

Unauthorised or improper use of IVCA credential designations, whether by a current member, former member, or non-member, may result in: a formal request to cease and desist; disciplinary proceedings (for current members); revocation of membership and credential status; legal action to protect IVCA's intellectual property rights; and/or referral to relevant regulatory or law enforcement authorities. IVCA actively monitors the use of its credential designations and takes all necessary steps to protect their integrity.

10. Acceptable Use

10.1 Prohibited Activities

When using the Website and Services, you agree not to:

  • Use the Website for any unlawful purpose or in violation of any applicable local, national, or international law or regulation.
  • Attempt to gain unauthorised access to any part of the Website, other users' accounts, or any systems or networks connected to the Website.
  • Use automated tools, bots, scrapers, or similar technologies to access, collect, or extract data from the Website without IVCA's prior written consent.
  • Transmit any viruses, malware, or other harmful code, or take any action that could damage, disable, or impair the Website or its infrastructure.
  • Impersonate any person or entity, or falsely state or misrepresent your affiliation with any person or entity.
  • Interfere with or disrupt the operation of the Website or the experience of other users.
  • Use information obtained from the practitioner directory for unsolicited marketing, spam, or any purpose other than its intended use.
  • Upload, post, or transmit any content that is defamatory, obscene, threatening, abusive, or otherwise objectionable.

10.2 Content Standards

Where you are permitted to submit content to the Website (for example, through your member profile), you are solely responsible for ensuring that such content is accurate, lawful, and does not infringe the rights of any third party. IVCA reserves the right to remove or edit any content that, in our reasonable opinion, breaches these standards or is otherwise inappropriate.

The Website may contain links to third-party websites, resources, or services that are not owned or controlled by IVCA. These links are provided for your convenience and information only. IVCA has no control over the content, privacy practices, or availability of third-party sites and does not endorse, recommend, or accept responsibility for them or for any loss or damage that may arise from your use of them. We encourage you to review the terms and privacy policies of any third-party site you visit.

12. Disclaimer of Warranties

The Website and all Services are provided on an "as is" and "as available" basis without warranties of any kind, whether express, implied, or statutory. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, IVCA disclaims all warranties, including but not limited to implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, non-infringement, and accuracy.

Without limiting the foregoing, IVCA does not warrant that:

  • The Website or Services will be uninterrupted, timely, secure, or free from errors or defects.
  • The information, content, or materials available through the Website will be accurate, complete, or current.
  • Any defects in the Website will be corrected within any particular timeframe.
  • The Website will be free from viruses or other harmful components.

Any reliance you place on information obtained through the Website is strictly at your own risk. IVCA does not provide medical, health, legal, or financial advice, and nothing on the Website should be construed as such.

13. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, IVCA, its directors, officers, employees, agents, and affiliates shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, including but not limited to:

  • Loss of profits, revenue, data, or business opportunity.
  • Loss of goodwill or reputation.
  • Cost of procurement of substitute services.
  • Any damages arising from your use of, or inability to use, the Website or Services.
  • Any damages arising from unauthorised access to or alteration of your account or data.
  • Any damages arising from reliance on information provided through the practitioner directory or verification service.

In any event, IVCA's total aggregate liability to you for all claims arising out of or relating to these Terms or the use of the Website shall not exceed the total amount of fees, if any, paid by you to IVCA in the twelve (12) months immediately preceding the event giving rise to the claim.

Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence, fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation, or any other liability that cannot be excluded or limited under applicable law.

14. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless IVCA, its directors, officers, employees, agents, and affiliates from and against any and all claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, and expenses (including reasonable legal fees) arising out of or in connection with: your use of the Website or Services; your breach of these Terms; your violation of any applicable law or regulation; your infringement of any third-party rights; any content you submit or make available through the Website; or any misuse of IVCA credential designations. This indemnification obligation shall survive the termination of your account and these Terms.

15. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms of Use, and any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with them or their subject matter or formation (including non-contractual disputes or claims), shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Ireland.

The courts of Ireland shall have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with these Terms. Notwithstanding the foregoing, IVCA retains the right to bring proceedings against you in the courts of your country of residence or any other court of competent jurisdiction for the purpose of seeking injunctive or other equitable relief to protect its intellectual property rights or to prevent irreparable harm.

If you are a consumer residing in the European Union, you may also be entitled to submit a dispute to the European Commission's Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platform at https://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr.

16. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found by a court or other competent authority to be invalid, unlawful, or unenforceable, that provision shall be deemed modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid and enforceable. If such modification is not possible, the relevant provision shall be deemed severed from these Terms. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions, which shall continue in full force and effect.

17. Changes to These Terms

IVCA reserves the right to amend or replace these Terms at any time. When we make changes, we will update the "Effective date" at the top of this page to reflect the date the revised Terms take effect.

For material changes that significantly affect your rights or obligations, IVCA will use reasonable efforts to provide advance notice, which may include: posting a prominent notice on the Website; sending an email notification to registered members at the address associated with their account; or displaying an in-application notification when you next access the member area. Where practicable, such notice will be given at least thirty (30) days before the revised Terms take effect.

Your continued use of the Website or Services after the effective date of any revised Terms constitutes your acceptance of those changes. If you do not agree with the revised Terms, you must discontinue your use of the Website. For members, disagreement with revised Terms does not relieve you of obligations incurred during the period in which the prior Terms were in effect, including any outstanding membership fees or CPD requirements.

We recommend that you review these Terms periodically to stay informed of any updates.

18. Contact

If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding these Terms of Use, please contact us:

We will endeavour to respond to all enquiries within a reasonable timeframe.