It is hard to imagine the modern world of construction, industry, and other economic sectors without scaffolding. Thousands of people are employed in this sector, working at heights and facilitating this work, by preparing and building scaffolding. Scaffolders, therefore, bear responsibility for the health and lives of others, as well as for environmental protection. Their activities are subject to various legal regulations. The Netherlands is renowned for prioritising workplace safety. That’s way, the scaffolding directive – Richtlijn Steigers – was established. In our article, you will learn what this document is, who created it and why, as well as what guidelines it contains. This is particularly important if you plan to work with scaffolding in the Netherlands.
What will you learn from the article?
- What is the scaffolding directive and what does it contain?
- What is the Dutch Labour Inspection (SZW) and what are its rights?
- What is CertCheck?
- Apprentice/assistant scaffolder and the scaffolding directive in the Netherlands
- How to start working as a scaffolder in compliance with the scaffolding directive?
What is the scaffolding directive and what does it contain?
The scaffolding directive in the Netherlands – Richtlijn Steigers – is a set of guidelines, concerning the construction and use of standing scaffolding, mainly steel, in construction, industry, and other economic sectors. It contains up-to-date, necessary, and required knowledge, compiled in the form of the Scaffolder’s Manual and available on the website www.richtlijnsteigers.nl. The Netherlands is a country that takes safety very seriously. Therefore, safety is the main focus in the creation of this document.
The scaffolding directive was developed through years of cooperation between experts from VSB(Association of Scaffolding, Aerial Work, and Concrete Formwork Companies) and the association of construction and infrastructure companies, Bouwend Nederland . They consulted their actions with specialists from other key Dutch associations and organisations (VNCI, former VNPI – now VEMOBIN, TNO, Aboma, former Arbonau – now Volandis) as well as universities, the ministry, and the Dutch Labour Inspection (SZW).
Even before the creation of the scaffolding directive, there were many standards and legal regulations in the Netherlands that governed the rules of safety and scaffolding control. However, the information contained within them was often contradictory or unclear. Therefore, the directive consolidated everything into one clear whole.
Furthermore, it is continuously updated, expanded, and adapted to changes in both Dutch and European regulations, as well as the evolving technology. Terminology has also been harmonised, so that users from various sectors employ the same terms and principles.
The guidelines for scaffolding are thus intended for everyone directly or indirectly involved in scaffolding work, including training institutions and employment agencies. They are constantly adapted to everyday use.
What is the Dutch Labour Inspection (Inspectie SZW) and what are its powers?
The Dutch Labour Inspection ensures healthy, fair, and safe working conditions, as well as social security for all citizens. It is a body under the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment. It supervises compliance, with laws regarding working conditions and the labour market. Specifically, inspectors check whether:
- Employees receive the minimum wage and minimum holiday allowance;
- Working hours are not exceeded;
- Conditions at the workplace do not endanger health and safety;
- Employees work legally and have the necessary work permits and qualifications.
Therefore, it is an institution that can carry out inspections at a scaffolder’s workplace and check their qualifications. It will verify whether the scaffolder holds the correct DNV certificate, allowing them to perform their job.
As a rule, inspections are conducted without prior notice. The Inspector SZW does not inform the employer of the timing of the inspection. He also does not need the company’s permission to enter, as the aim is to observe work being carried out, in its natural, everyday conditions and to check whether employees are working safely, healthily, and fairly.
In exceptional cases, an inspection may be announced. This is usually when the employer needs to prepare for the audit to run smoothly. For example, when specific documents or selected company specialists are needed.
The inspection begins with the identification of the inspector(s), who then states the purpose of his visit. He then starts his work. They have the right to request access to documents and data. They can also ask employees questions. The employer is obliged to cooperate – without any choice in the matter.
What is CertCheck?
If the inspected employee cannot present the appropriate certificate, an SZW inspector can check the scaffolder’s qualifications himself, using the CertCheck system. This is a register of all DNV diplomas, where it is possible to see if a person has passed the DNV exam and obtained the certificate.
One only needs to go to the DNV DNV website and enter the surname and date of birth of the person being checked. Then, the information will appear as to whether the scaffolder holds a DNV certificate.
If the inspection reveals that the inspector cannot find confirmation of the scaffolder’s DNV certificate, a very high fine may be imposed. The penalty is applied not only to the scaffolder, but also to the employer who hired him ,without the required qualifications.
Aspirant of the scaffolders assistant SVWOH and the scaffolding directive in the Netherlands
If you want to start working as a scaffolder in the Netherlands, you need to undergo appropriate training and pass an exam at a certified training centre, such as Bonapi Training Center. This will grant you a legal certificate, confirming your qualifications.
The Richtlijn Steigers guide precisely outlines the training requirements for the scaffolding sector. It also describes the rules related to conducting tests and issuing certificates. Moreover, an important part of the Guide for Scaffolders, includes guidelines on the topics that training must cover. This includes knowledge of all types of scaffolding in the Netherlands. Section 7 of Richtlijn Steigers also provides descriptions of all positions, related to the assembly/disassembly of scaffolding.
There are several professional levels according to DNV certification. Aspirant of the scaffolders assistant SVWOH . holds the lowest position in the scaffolding team. They prepare the construction site, sort and prepare the necessary scaffolding material. Under the supervision of an experienced basic scaffolder or advanced scaffolder, they participate in the scaffolding assembly process. However, they cannot assemble or disassemble scaffolding independently. Their main tasks include delivering and bringing materials, needed for assembly and observing the work of more experienced scaffolders.
How to start working as a scaffolder according to the scaffolding directive in the Netherlands?
If you plan to work as an assistant scaffolder, sign up for our DNV assistant scaffolder course. Then pass the exam and obtain the DNV certificate.
However, not having the certificate, does not close your career path in the scaffolding industry. Currently, to work in this position, registration with SVWOH is sufficient. You must remember, however, that without the certificate you cannot assemble scaffolding independently, and you start your career from the lowest level, even if you have extensive knowledge and experience gained in another country.
What must you do to become an Scaffolding Apprentice?
- Visit the SVWOH website and fill in the required information to register as an assistant scaffolder.
- Prepare your VCA certificate number, which you need for registration. If you don’t have it yet, sign up for our one-day Basic VCA course following with an exam.
- Pay the registration fee of €108.90 (including VAT).
- Correctly answer 10 questions. The number of attempts is unlimited.
In this way, you will obtain the qualifications of an scaffolding apprentice. They are valid for one year.
The role of an assistant scaffolder is often seen as a transitional stage, before obtaining full scaffolding fitter qualifications in accordance with Richtlijn Steigers regulations. Key to this process are training with SVWOH exam and the DNV certificate,, which will ensure you safe and healthy working conditions. They will also help you improve your qualifications and find a well-paid job, as scaffolders are still in high demand in the Netherlands.
Therefore, contact us today and sign up for a course, that will open new professional and financial prospects for you and enhance your position in the Dutch job market. Ensure your safety and work comfort with us.
