Be alert to the use of non-legal workers

The labor shortage affects all sectors, including concrete and steel construction. Temporary employment agencies are increasingly being used, but not all companies strictly adhere to Dutch laws and regulations. Questionable constructions are used to employ workers who are not from EU/EEA countries, which is against the law and therefore prohibited. The risks of this are considerable. Profimax clearly distances itself from this trend and wants to warn clients in the concrete and steel construction industry: be careful when using non-legal labor.

For more than a decade, "Always get the job done!" has been Profimax's motto. "We operate with specialized divisions in facade construction, construction and engineering, each with an experienced and professional sales and back office team to quickly respond to our customers' needs," says director Henri Lensen. "For a good match, an intake always takes place. Of our skilled workers, 20% have Dutch nationality or speak Dutch; the remaining 80% speak English and come exclusively from EU/EEA countries."

In violation of the law

"At Profimax, we strictly follow Dutch regulations," emphasizes operations manager Dave Ruijs. "We have seen that some competitors use non-EEA employees, often through a construction with an EU visa. Although the temptation may be great because of lower costs, this is against the law. In fact, clients should already be ringing a bell when they hear that they can often hire workers through these parties at extremely low, almost impossible rates. Dutch legislation, in particular the WAV (Aliens Employment Act), explicitly prohibits the employment of non-EEA persons within the Netherlands. Profimax distances itself from these practices and points out the potential risks. Besides significant fines, the (legal) consequences in the event of a calamity are incalculable."

New certification system

The government has announced it will step up enforcement on compliance with these rules this year, in anticipation of the new certification system to be introduced in 2025. "The certification system is currently being shaped by stakeholders such as the Tax and Customs Administration, the SVB, the Inspectorate SZW, NBBU/ABU trade associations and the IND (immigration)," said Ruijs. "We stress the importance of being vigilant about the use of non-legal workers. The websites of the NBBU and Inspectorate SZW, among others, highlight this topic in detail. Take advantage of it and take appropriate measures where necessary. In case of questions or further clarification on this subject, we at Profimax will also assist you with appropriate advice, of course."

Profimax has been NEN 4400-1 SNA certified for many years and guarantees the employment of qualified mechanics from EU/EEA countries. All workers have a Dutch VCA certificate and work exclusively with approved NEN 3140 tools. Profimax is also a recognized training company and VMRG partner and has received no less than five FD Gazellen Awards, recognition for the fastest growing and financially healthy companies in the Netherlands.