VCA basic and VCA VOL explained: what it is and who needs it

Short answer: VCA stands for the Dutch Safety, Health and Environment Checklist for Contractors. With a VCA certificate you show that you know the basics of working safely. B-VCA (VCA basic) is for operational staff. VOL-VCA is for operational supervisors and self-employed workers. A VCA certificate is valid for ten years. This is an outline explanation: which requirement applies to you is decided by the client.

Read this article in Dutch as well: VCA basis en VCA VOL: wat is het en voor wie?.

What is VCA?

VCA is a safety system for companies and people working in places with increased risk, such as construction sites, industry and installation work. There are two sides:

• VCA certification for companies: the company shows that it manages safety properly.
• VCA certificate for individuals: the worker shows that he or she knows how to work safely.

Many clients require everyone on the project to hold a VCA certificate. Without it, you will not get onto the site.

B-VCA, VOL-VCA and VIL-VCU side by side

If you hold VOL-VCA, you have also covered the B-VCA content. You do not need both.

Which certificate do you need?

• You work as a tradesperson or fitter in employment: usually B-VCA.
• You lead a team or are a site supervisor: VOL-VCA.
• You are self-employed: often VOL-VCA, because you are responsible for safe work yourself.
• You work at an employment agency and place people: VIL-VCU.

⚠️ The client or the company decides which certificate is mandatory. Always check this before starting on a project.

How do you get a VCA certificate?

You follow a training course or study on your own, and then take a multiple-choice exam at a recognised exam centre. The exam covers topics such as hazards and risks, accidents, legislation, hazardous substances, working at height, electricity, fire and PPE. After ten years the certificate expires and you take the exam again.

What do you learn with VCA?

In outline you learn:

• to recognise risks before you start, for example with a last minute risk analysis;
• why a toolbox meeting matters;
• which PPE to wear and when;
• working safely at height, with tools and with hazardous substances;
• what to do in an accident, a near miss or a fire.

Read more about working safely on site in our blog on safe working on the construction site.

PPE on a VCA project

On almost every VCA project you wear the basic kit:

• a safety helmet against falling objects; also read our blog on safety helmets;
• safety shoe, such as low S3S safety shoe or high leather S3 safety boot; also read our blog on choosing safety shoes;
• a orange safety vest or high-visibility bib overalls for visibility, and in winter an insulated high-visibility vest;
• work gloves with nitrile coating, and cut-resistant gloves when working with sharp edges; also read our buying guide for work gloves.

Depending on the work, you add:

• safety goggles against dust and splinters; also read our blog on safety glasses for professionals;
• earmuffs or earplugs in noisy conditions; also read our blog on hearing protection;
• an FFP2 dust mask or FFP3 dust mask against dust;
• a safety harness when working at height.

👷 A VCA certificate is a foundation, not a replacement for craftsmanship and experience. You also learn to work safely on the job, from experienced colleagues. If in doubt, stop work and ask your supervisor for advice.

💡 Check your PPE before every project: does the helmet fit, are the shoes still intact and is your vest still clearly visible?

Frequently asked questions

How long is a VCA certificate valid?

Ten years. After that you take the exam again.

What is the difference between B-VCA and VOL-VCA?

B-VCA is for operational staff. VOL-VCA is for supervisors and self-employed workers and also includes the B-VCA content.

Which VCA do I need as a self-employed worker?

Often VOL-VCA. Always check what the client requires.

Does my employer have to provide PPE?

Yes, in employment the employer provides the right PPE. As a self-employed worker you arrange it yourself.

Where can you find everything for this job?

At Saniso, the online store for DIYers and professionals, you will find tools, materials and personal protective equipment for your job.

• Browse our construction tools and our workwear and safety.
• Create a customer account and order easily.
• Working on a bigger project or want to hand over the job? Request a project quote.
• Book a showroom visit, at least 24 hours in advance.
• Not sure which material suits your job? Get in touch with us.

In doubt about the approach? Feel free to call in a professional.

Saniso – Build your home with Saniso.