The VSB (Vereniging van Steiger-, Hoogwerk- en Betonbekistingbedrijven) has recognized DELTA Safety Training for scaffolding courses in accordance with the new scaffolding construction training structure. The accreditation is applicable for the Scaffolding Engineer course (Monteur Steigerbouw). The applications for recognition of the Assistant Engineer (Hulpmonteur) and First Engineer (Eerste Monteur) training are in preparation.

New methodology in which practical training is central

For the Scaffolding Engineer (Monteur Steigerbouw) training, DELTA Safety Training developed a completely new didactic concept in close cooperation with two education experts and content experts from the sector. Practice is central in this course. For the theoretical part, e-learning modules are made with a lot of visual material. At the new training location in Rotterdam Waalhaven, DELTA Safety Training has 5000 m2 of practice space with a height of 10 meters. All trainings can be performed indoors.

VSB recognition

The VSB grants the status of accredited trainer provider if there is a training organization that focuses on quality, presence of course material that meets the final and test terms for scaffolding functions, skilled and experienced trainers and facilities that are set up for realizing the learning objectives. After an audit, DELTA Safety Training was found to meet all these conditions and was nominated as a VSB accredited trainer provider.

Accredited trainer providers undertake periodic audits with the aim of guaranteeing their suitability as an accredited trainer provider. The validity of the recognition is therefore set at 3 years.

New scaffolding training structure

The new training structure focuses on making the professional competence of scaffolding engineers demonstrable, as laid down in Chapter 7 of the Scaffolding Directive.
The professional competence of scaffolding engineers can be demonstrated by:
– Following public education (MBO level) and relevant practical experience.
– Following training/courses and relevant practical experience.
– Years of work experience through working in practice.

With the new unambiguous training structure, the choice has been made not only for the three ways of demonstrating professional competence (see above), but especially for the unambiguous registration of diplomas and certificates in the Central Diploma Register. This is the register in which, among other things, the VCA and SOG certificates are included and which is managed by the SSVV (Stichting Samenwerking voor Veiligheid). The registration takes place on behalf of the VSB.

Effective Januari 1st, 2017

The training structure was introduced in January 2014 and will apply to everyone from 1 January 2017. After that date, everyone who assembles scaffolding must have a diploma recognized by the government and industry at MBO level, or a personal certificate. With this, the sector hopes to stop fraud with certificates while relieving clients and the Inspectorate SZW (Inspectie Sociale Zaken en Werkgelegenheid).
During the transition period until January 1, 2017, obtained certificates and acquired professional knowledge will be assessed separately. In order to assess the professional competences, amongst other things, the obtained certificates will be reviewed and in most cases an exam is proposed.
Certificates that have recently been obtained under personal certification will be recognized and registered in the Central Diploma Register.

Route maps and website

Special route maps were developed for the new scaffolding training structure.
These route maps contain which steps must be taken to complete the relevant route to professional competence.
Additionally, a special menu item on the VSB and Scaffolding Directive website is present, where all information about the structure can be found. The information will be constantly completed and updated.

With the new scaffolding training structure, the industry not only makes professional competence demonstrable, but also contributes to safety, safe working and safety perception at every level.
Not only the employer and client benefit from this, but especially the employee who can remain safely employed and engaged in scaffolding for a longer time.

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