SAFETY, HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT CHECKLIST CONTRACTORS VCA 2026/6.1

VCA 2026/6.1: latest version of the VCA scheme

VCA 2026/6.1 will be in force from 1 July 2026. This new version is the successor to VCA 2017/6.0 and applies to all new and current VCA company certifications. From this date, initial audits, recertification audits and periodic audits will be carried out in accordance with VCA 2026/6.1.

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What will change with VCA 2026/6.1?

VCA 2026/6.1 is not a completely new VCA scheme. The basis and foundation of VCA will be retained. The new version bundles, among other things, the decisions and interpretations that have been adopted since the introduction of VCA 2017/6.0. In addition, various components have been clarified and updated, so that the scheme is more in line with the current practice of safe and healthy working.

A number of important points of attention are:

  • further clarification of various VCA requirements;
  • the system for identifying and complying with relevant HSE legislation has been included more explicitly;
  • leadership skills are integrally anchored in the VCA scheme;
  • requirements for internal audits and independence have been clarified;
  • attention to instruction of new employees and employees who change jobs;
  • clarification of requirements regarding education and experience;
  • up-to-date EHS project plans must be available in the workplace;
  • The terminology is more in line with the current labour market, including working with flexible workers.

What does the transition from VCA 2017/6.0 to VCA 2026/6.1 mean?

For existing depository receipt holders, the transition is clear. VCA 2017/6.0 certificates remain valid. Because, according to the SSVV, there are no substantive changes that necessitate a formal transition period, no separate transition period has been established. VCA 2017/6.0 and VCA 2026/6.1 are considered equivalent.

However, from 1 July 2026, every audit will be carried out against VCA 2026/6.1. Your organisation does not need to be recertified before 1 July 2026. At the next audit, the certification will be assessed according to the new version.

The existing certificate cycle will be maintained. The transition to VCA 2026/6.1 therefore does not result in a shortening of the original period of validity of the certificate.

VCA-MAX at VCA 2026/6.1

In addition to updating VCA, VCA-MAX has also been further developed. VCA-MAX is the safety culture combination of SSVV and is in line with the VCA scheme. The new VCA-MAX 2026/6.1 is aligned with VCA 2026/6.1.

Whereas VCA mainly lays a foundation for managing safety, health and environmental risks, VCA-MAX also focuses on strengthening the safety culture and safe behaviour within organisations.

More info

Do you have any questions about VCA 2026/6.1, the transition from VCA 2017/6.0 or the possibilities of VCA-MAX?

Please contact us. We are happy to help you with further explanation.

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