Scaffolding is an integral part of carrying out many activities and projects, across various industries. However, poorly designed, constructed, or maintained scaffolding, poses a serious risk. Falls from height, structural collapse, or other scaffolding-related accidents, can lead to severe injuries, or even death. Therefore, the role of a scaffolding inspector is crucial in ensuring that all scaffolding complies with regulations, safety standards, and industry best practices. Discover what the training for a scaffolding inspector in the Netherlands entails, how to obtain the DNV certificate, and who can enroll in this programme.
What will you learn from this article?
- What is a certified scaffolding inspector responsible for?
- Scaffolding inspector and the DNV certificate
- What does training and examination at Bonapi Training Center involve?
- Who can become a scaffolding inspector?
- Scaffolding inspector training and the DNV certificate – summary
What is a certified scaffolding inspector responsible for?
In every industry where working at heights is a regular part of daily duties, safety is a top priority. Scaffolding primarily allows access to hard-to-reach places, but must also guarantee safe and comfortable working conditions
According to the Scaffolding Directive that is effective in the Netherlands, a certified scaffolding inspector (Steigerinspecteur) is responsible for the approval of scaffolding. They are also authorized to issue Scafftags, or scaffolding tags.
The activities related to the approval of scaffolding are not a single task, as the condition of scaffolding and its suitability for use, must be systematically checked. Therefore, the inspector conducts regular inspections, to ensure and officially confirm, that the structures meet all safety standards and comply with current regulations.
This minimizes the risk of accidents that can result in health problems, and in extreme cases, even in death. Additionally, living up to legal regulations, which are often very detailed and demanding, will be necessary, to avoid fines and legal issues. A certified specialist must therefore stay up to date with the latest regulations and standards in order to effectively perform his duties.
A scaffolding inspector also has specialized technical knowledge, allowing them to assess the quality and stability of scaffolding structures. He detects potential defects and issues, such as improper assembly, material deterioration, or structural damage, that could endanger the safety of its users. He monitors the condition of the scaffolding throughout the project’s duration, identifying and eliminating potential hazards, in order to prevent accidents.
Scaffolding Inspector and the DNV Inspector Certificate
In the Netherlands, where workplace safety standards are exceptionally high, the role of a scaffolding inspector is of particular importance. The DNV Inspector Certificate is the unquestionable proof of a scaffolding inspector’s competence and professionalism.
DNV (Det Norske Veritas) is an international company specialising in risk management and quality assurance, renowned for its high certification standards. Its headquarters are in Norway, but the company has branches worldwide, including the Netherlands.
The DNV Inspector Certificate stands for a scaffolding inspector who has undergone specialized training and meets rigorous standards. This certificate is therefore highly valuable for both employers and employees. Employers gain assurance that their scaffolding inspectors hold the highest qualifications, leading to a reduction in accidents and in compliance with regulations. Employees, on the other hand, can work in safer conditions, which increases their trust in the company and their motivation to work.
The DNV Inspector Certificate is valid for 5 years. It is recognised in both the Netherlands and in Belgium.
How does the training for scaffolding inspector and the exam at Bonapi Training Center work?
If you want to become a scaffolding inspector, you need to undergo appropriate training and pass the exam at a certified training institute, such as Bonapi Training Center.
Our scaffolding inspector course is offered in both English and Dutch. It consists solely of theoretical instruction, without a practical component. It covers the topics you need to understand and master, in order to pass the exam, get the certificate and begin working as a qualified scaffolding inspector.
The training lasts 4 days:
- 3 days of theory (8 hours per day)
- 1 day for the exam (2.5 hours)
The scaffolding inspector exam can only be conducted in the following languages:
- English
- Dutch
- German
Therefore it is not possible to take the exam in Polish. The exam lasts 2.5 hours and consists of a theoretical part only.
Training to become a scaffolding inspector – who can become a scaffolding inspector?
Do you want to take the training and become a certified scaffolding inspector? You must meet several conditions that are strictly required. You must::
- Be at least 18 years old
- possess a valid identity document (ID card or passport) or
- a valid VCA Basic or VCA VOL certificate (SCC is not accepted) or
- a DNV first scaffolder certificate; if you do not have the first scaffolder certificate, you need to provide a CV and an employer’s statement, confirming your experience as a first scaffolder, prepared on the appropriate DNV form, which you can download HERE.
Sometimes a candidate for scaffolding inspector does not have a first scaffolder certificate because, for example, he previously worked in a country, where DNV certificates were not required. If that is the case, he must provide a CV and the above-mentioned statement, confirming at least 5 years of experience as a first scaffolder.
Training for a scaffolding inspector and DNV certificate – summary
The Netherlands is known for its stringent workplace safety regulations. In sectors where working at heights is a daily occurrence, scaffolding must meet detailed technical requirements and standards. Scaffolding inspectors, therefore, play an extremely important role in creating and maintaining safe working conditions. This contributes to protecting the health and lives of workers, timely project completion, and building trust and reputation for the company.
In our article “Working as a Scaffolder in the Netherlands and Belgium,” you will learn what you need to do, to start working as a scaffolder.
If you want to become a certified DNV specialist, contact us and sign up for the scaffolding inspector course at Bonapi Training Center Our training will prepare you for the challenges of this crucial role and help ensure safety, in the Dutch labor market.
