Monique Willemse, Lead Auditor and VCU Coordinator at Normec Certification Institute, talks about the expected changes to the VCU standard. What is about to change, why is it necessary and how can temporary staffing organizations prepare? Monique updates us on the developments.
Why is there going to be a new version of the VCU standard?
"The current version of the VCU standard dates back to 2011. A lot has obviously changed since then, both in the VCU standard and in laws and regulations. The VCU standard no longer properly reflects current practice and is therefore due for an update. The SSVV and the Accreditation Council are currently in the final stages of negotiating a revised version. We expect the new standard to be published during 2025."
What are the main changes?
"There are quite a few substantive changes in the new version. For example, the internal audit will be a separate standard question with concrete minimum requirements. The safety passport will also receive an update to better reflect current practice. In addition, new requirements will be added, for example in the areas of LMRA (Last Minute Risk Analysis), HSE behavior, assessment of supervisors and intermediaries, and the inspection of work equipment. An important change is also that the Temporary Workers Risk Scan will become a mandatory part of the standard."
Will the role of the auditor also change?
"Yes, that's right. At least once every three years, the auditor will conduct an interview with a temporary worker at their work location. That's new, and it emphasizes how important it is to really know what's going on on the shop floor. In addition, payroll companies that do not perform agency activities will soon no longer be able to obtain VCU certification."
What is the impact of these changes on staffing organizations?
"The new VCU standard puts more emphasis on a proactive attitude toward safety and health. It is no longer just about paper processes, but also about awareness and behavior on the shop floor. Temporary workers need to be better informed about risks, measures, required training and protective equipment even before they start work."
How can temporary employment agencies prepare?
"My advice is: keep a close eye on the developments, but wait a while with concrete adjustments until the new standard is final. You can already take a critical look at your current processes around recruitment and selection, risk analyses, workplace inspections and training policy. Where are the bottlenecks? What will probably require more attention? Once the standard has been established, you can start working in a more focused way."
Will existing certificates expire?
"No, existing certificates remain valid. The moment the new standard is published, there will be a transition period. This will give organizations time to adapt to the new requirements. We do not yet know exactly how long this period will be, but SSVV will communicate clearly about this."
What would you like to pass along to organizations?
"See the change not only as an obligation, but also as an opportunity to really improve your processes. In the end, it's all about the safety of the people you send out. And the better you have that in place, the more confidence you radiate to both clients and temporary workers."
Want to know more about VCU or the upcoming changes?
Would you like to become VCU certified or would you like to know what the new standard means for your organization?
Feel free to contact NCI Certification at info@nci-certificering.nl or call 0181-301130.