Instructor Blogs

We thought we would re-post an earlier post we had to ensure instructors know the rules on logo use. The Red cross emblem is not something that you are allowed to use and in any form. Michael Myer of the British Red Cross has kindly clarified the use for us and offered that if anyone is not sure that they can contact them direct. If you are using a red cross in any form then you may be in breach of international law. Some logo’s you buy online may have red crosses and just because you buy them does not mean that you can use them.  We have seen many logo’s and images with a red cross in them for sale.

It may seem a good idea or may look in keeping with the design of your site to have a red cross but we advise you to contact Michael or simply replace the logo.  Even if there is a partial red cross and then another colour you may still be in breach.  They do have systems in place to trace the use of the logo and then they will ask you to remove it.

Micael Myers states:

The red cross emblem is a special symbol of neutrality and protection during armed conflict.  In order to preserve its protective value its use is restricted by national and international laws.  The main users of the emblem are the medical services of the armed forces and Red Cross organisations, such as the British Red Cross.  The red cross emblem is not a general sign of first aid, health care or similar matters.  The recognised sign for first aid is a white cross on a green background, and this sign should be used to signify first aid. 

For further information on the protective emblems, please visit:

http://www.redcross.org.uk/What-we-do/Protecting-people-in-conflict/The-red-cross-emblem

Or contact:

Head of International Law, British Red Cross, 44 Moorfields, London, EC2Y 9AL (mmeyer@redcross.org.uk).