End of AHM – Aspirant Scaffolding Assistant. From 2026, a new certificate for Scaffolding Helper (Hulpmonteur) – what do you need to know?

In just one year, the well-known AHM – Aspirant-Hulpmonteur (Assistant Scaffolding fitter) status will disappear. SVWOH (the organization responsible for exams in the scaffolding industry) has announced that as of July 1, 2026, AHM registration will no longer exist. Instead, a new mandatory Hulpmonteur course will be introduced.
At first glance, it may seem like a minor adjustment — but not this time. The new certification rules mean that from now on, every scaffolding assistant will have to meet completely different requirements.

Why is SVWOH ending the AHM registration?

Until now, every beginner helper had to be registered as an AHM before being allowed to work on scaffolding. However, this status did not provide any official certification – it was more of a “permission to learn.”
In the new version of the Scaffolding Guidelines, this status no longer exists. From now on, anyone assisting in the assembly or dismantling of scaffolding must complete official training and pass the Assistant Scaffolding fitter exam.

From when do the changes come into effect?

1. The new Assistant Scaffolding fitter certification will be available starting from the fourth quarter of 2025.
2. AHM (Assistant Scaffolding fitter) registration will no longer exist as of July 1, 2026.

Importantly, if someone registers as an AHM in, for example, June 2026, their status will still expire one month later. After that date, extensions will no longer be possible, and the registration will become invalid.

• The cost of AHM registration remains unchanged – €90 net excl. VAT.
• The last possible day to register as AHM is June 30, 2026.

What does the new Assistant Scaffolding fitter certificate include?

It’s not just a new name. SVWOH is introducing a completely new training and examination system, based on two pillars:

1. Theory – 100% online
Candidates learn at their own pace, in their own language, using a computer or phone.
There’s no need to travel to courses – the theory is available 24/7.
This is a huge advantage for people who work or speak Polish, English, Romanian, or any other language.
2. Exam under the supervision of SVWOH
The practical exam will take place at approved examination centers.
The entire process is supervised by SVWOH, and upon passing the exam, the candidate receives an industry-recognized Hulpmonteur certificate.

This document will be required by all companies that follow the Richtlijn Steigers guidelines.

And what about bodycams and photos?

Not long ago, SVWOH announced that starting July 1, 2025, examiners would be required to take photos of candidates and their workstations. That idea has been officially withdrawn – but the testing isn't over yet.

🔴 The pilot program using bodycams is still ongoing.
It’s not yet known whether the cameras will become a permanent part of the exams.
At Bonapi, we’re closely following the situation and will let you know as soon as any concrete decisions are made.

Digital exam for inspector? Not just yet.

If you’re planning to start working in scaffolding or are already doing so without a certificate – now is the last chance to get prepared.
The new rules will be stricter, but also more transparent and accessible.

At Bonapi, we’ve supported SVWOH’s solutions from the very beginning, and we’ll help you through the entire process – from theory to exam.
No matter your language, skill level, or experience.

Changes in the scaffolding industry are just beginning – but with us, you won’t be left behind.
Have questions? Send us a message or give us a call. We’re happy to help.
At Bonapi, we keep our finger on the pulse and will help you transition into the new system without stress.