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VCAVCA internationally

VCA abroad

VCA  is a Dutch and Belgian scheme, managed by the SSVV . In Germany and Austria it is called SCC . If you work internationally, it helps to know where your VCA certificate is accepted.

Where is VCA recognised?

VCA is officially recognised in:

  • The Netherlands: this is where it originated and where it is most widespread
  • Belgium: full recognition, and many clients ask for it
  • Germany: recognised as SCC (see below)
  • Austria: recognised as SCC

In these countries, you can use your VCA certificate to work for clients who ask for safety certification.

VCA and SCC: the same but different

In Germany and Austria, VCA has a different name: SCC. This stands for Sicherheits Certifikat Contraktoren (German for: safety certificate for contractors).

SCC and VCA are almost identical. The SSVV  and the German and Austrian managers work together to keep the standards equal. If you hold VCA certification in the Netherlands, it is recognised in Germany as SCC.

The levels

DutchGerman/Austrian
VCA*SCC*
VCA**SCC**
VCA PetrochemieSCC-P

The diplomas

DutchGerman
B-VCASCC-Dok 016
VOL-VCASCC-Dok 017
VIL-VCUSCC-Dok 018

If you hold a Dutch VCA diploma, it is valid in Germany. You do not need to take a separate SCC exam. Do check that your diploma is listed in the SSVV register .

VCA does not work everywhere: alternatives outside the VCA countries

Do you work in countries where VCA is not recognised? Then you have other options:

ISO 45001

ISO 45001 is the international standard for occupational health and safety. It is recognised worldwide. If you work a lot outside the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and Austria, ISO 45001 is often a better choice. See also our comparison of VCA vs. ISO 45001.

Local certifications

Some countries have their own safety certifications:

  • United Kingdom: CHAS, SafeContractor, Constructionline
  • France: MASE (comparable to VCA)
  • Scandinavia: often ISO 45001 or local requirements

Always check with your client what they ask for. Do not assume that VCA works everywhere.

The VCA register

All VCA certificates and personal diplomas are registered with the Stichting Samenwerken Voor Veiligheid (SSVV) . This register is public and clients can consult it.

This means:

  • Clients can check whether your company is really certified
  • They can verify the validity of your employees’ diplomas
  • Fraud with false certificates is made harder

The register is also linked to the German and Austrian registers, so international verification is possible.

Tips for working internationally with VCA

1. Check the requirements in advance Contact your client before you start. Ask which certifications they require and whether VCA is accepted.

2. Keep your documents to hand Make sure your certificates and diplomas are available digitally. In some countries you must be able to show them when you enter a site.

3. Watch the language requirements Some clients require employees to speak a certain language or require diplomas to be issued in a certain language. VCA exams are available in several languages.

4. Consider ISO 45001 If you work internationally on a regular basis, ISO 45001 can be a good addition to your VCA. It is more widely recognised and aligns with international standards.

More information

Changes 2025/2026Frequently asked questions