VCA** Certification | Safety, Health & Environment Standards
What is VCA?
VCA (Veiligheid, Gezondheid en Milieu (“VGM”) Checklist Aannemers) is the leading HSE certification in the Dutch industrial, offshore, and construction sectors. It ensures that contractors meet strict safety, health, and environmental standards, reducing risks in high-hazard work environments. This checklist is a certified checklist (in our case by Lloyds Register) and certified contractors meet the standards for HSE whilst performing their activities. Meeting this standard also means that anyone working with these contractors has an awareness of professional safety. Certification proves professional safety requirements for operational as well as for management levels. The certificate runs for 10 years and needs frequent updates through toolbox meetings, instructions and education.
Why VCA Matters
- Enhances workplace safety & risk management
- Required by many industrial & offshore clients
- Increases professional safety awareness
- Valid for 10 years with mandatory training
VCA Certification Levels
- VCA (One Star):* For small businesses with fewer than 35 employees.
- VCA (Two Star):** For main contractors with 35+ employees managing complex projects.
- VCA-P: For contractors in the petrochemical industry with stricter safety protocols.
A Safety Standard Rooted in Industry Needs
Originally developed to reduce offshore and petrochemical workplace accidents, VCA certification is now widely adopted in construction, maritime, and civil engineering. Based on the ISRS (International Sustainability Rating System), it aligns with global ISO safety standards.
History of VCA
To decrease the number of accidents and to increase professional safety levels and awareness in the Offshore as well as (Petro)chemical industry was the start of the norm. Now, this norm is used in civil construction work and in other branches. VCA, however, is not obligated by law. Customers can require the norm, it is the choice of contractors to meet the requirements. VCA is based on the ISRS (International Sustainability Rating) system, which was also the basis for the current ISO systems for health safety and environment.
Is VCA Mandatory?
VCA is not legally required but is often a clients' requirement in industrial, offshore, and heavy industry projects.
Certified companies gain a competitive advantage in securing contracts.
Ensure Safety & Compliance | Get VCA-Certified Today!
