Confirmation of conformity as main focus security

As part of the international TÜV NORD GROUP, TÜV Netherlands has been assessing the safety, quality, reliability and living environment of organizations, governments and society since 1981. An activity that is fulfilled through a diverse and comprehensive range of services, the execution of which is accompanied by a far-reaching degree of objectivity, transparency, expertise and integrity. One of the spearheads with which TÜV Netherlands serves the market as an independent service provider is increasing safety, health and environment in the workplace. VCA is an important and distinguished certification scheme in this regard.

TÜV Netherlands performs not only audits, but also (periodic) inspections of lifting and hoisting equipment and electrical installations, among other things.

While SCC was initially developed for companies supplying the (petro-) chemical industry, the system is now present in every conceivable field where high-risk work is carried out. So too in the construction industry. "From TÜV we want to demonstrate reliability in any place where there is a safety risk," says Alex de Wals, manager sales & business development on behalf of Son-based TÜV Netherlands. "We do this through certifications, seals of approval, inspections and training. When it comes to safety, we attach a label to a process or product, so to speak. In doing so, our approach is to offer help to the client. People often think that we come in and look for errors, problems and imperfections like a policeman. But that is not our intention and is certainly not consistent with our vision of safety. Our auditors do not look for discrepancies, but rather for confirmation of conformity. They take a step-by-step look at whether work is being done safely according to the standards and how we can contribute as a competent partner to raising the level of safety to an even higher level. By conducting around 2,000 SCC audits a year, our qualified auditors take a look into a variety of kitchens. The experiences they gain are then applied in the field. Confidentiality is of paramount importance here."

Summum

Choosing the services of TÜV Netherlands is choosing a customized approach. The need determines the interpretation. "In contact with the client, we take stock of its situation and look together at how we can best answer its question," continues De Wals. "This can very specifically be certification on technical control measures, but we can also prove our value for customers who want to do more with safety awareness. The solution can be VCA certification or, for example, the NEN Safety Ladder. The latter is for clients who are committed to creating a culture change with regard to safety. Not only to reduce risks and incidents on the shop floor, but also to increase safety awareness within the company walls together with suppliers. Because that's where it all starts."

TÜV Netherlands provides LMRA cards free of charge to identify, address and control risks. (Image: Balf Rockstar Photography)

The previously mentioned VCA certificate, the proof that companies meet the requirements set forth in the HSE Checklist, is well known in the Netherlands. It is also accepted in a number of other countries. The system has existed for many years and has been greatly developed over time. "We look together with clients at which solution best suits the needs and business activities used. This allows us to offer a customized solution that contributes to a safe working environment."    

Text | Chris Elbers   Image | TÜV Netherlands
Featured image: An auditor from TÜV Netherlands during a working visit.