What is a VCA and why do I need it?

When working in high-risk environments like in factories, building sites, petrochemicals, etc., it is important to know how to prevent injuries, accidents and any dangerous situation that might come your way. This is where the VCA certificate comes in hand.

This certification is very important because without it you won’t be able to start working for most construction and industry companies in countries like the Netherlands, Belgium or even France, Austria and Germany.

If you choose to work for Wanted, we can book the most convenient VCA training for you and cover the associated costs. Our only goal is to make the whole process easier for you!

In this article we explain everything you need to know about the VCA Certificate.

What is the VCA?

VCA is short for “Safety, Health and Environment Checklist Contractor’s” and is a course designed to make workers aware of all the safety procedures they must perform in a high-risk workplace.

How to get the VCA certificate?

Fortunately, there are many training centers all around Europe specialized in this certification.

The usual duration of the training is 1 day, with a final test of about 1-hour at the end.

It’s usually a multiple-choice test.

Out of curiosity, these are the modules of the course:

1. Legislation on Safety and Security at Work
2. Dangers, risks, and its preventions
3. Accidents – causes and preventions
4. Safety behaviors
5. Rights, obligations
6. Safety procedures
7. Dangerous substances
8. Fires and Explosions
9. Machines and equipment
10. Electricity and Radiation
11. Personal Protection Equipment

If you pass the test, you will receive the VCA certificate that is valid for up to 10 years.

Observations:

The training might be adjusted to be conducted in your native language, whenever possible.

In alternative to the written test, there is an option to take the test orally, by answering the questions given by the instructor, in person.

Different types of VCA

There are 2 types of VCA certificates that vary according to the category of the work you will do.

If you are a regular worker, it is required for you to have the B-VCA (Basis VCA) Certificate. However, if you are a supervisor or a manager you must apply for the VCA VOL Certificate.

The contents of the courses differ between one another, as well as the duration of it.

Gorana Jovičić

Recruiter