VCA 2026/6.1 includes clarifications and targeted improvements that align with daily practice and current developments in safety, health, and environment. During development, explicit attention was also paid to the coherence between the various standards. For example, the VCA-MAX safety culture combination continues to seamlessly align with VCA 2026/6.1, and leadership skills (VCA-LEI) are now integrally anchored in the scheme. With these adjustments, the qualitative and proven foundation of VCA is further strengthened.
From when is the new version valid?
VCA 2026/6.1 comes into effect on 1 July 2026. From that moment on, VCA 2026/6.1 will apply to all new and ongoing certifications, and all audits will be carried out according to the new schedule.
What does the new VCA version mean for certification?
- The new VCA version has consequences for the certification process.
- From the effective date of 1 July 2026, all audits will be conducted according to the new schedule.
- The accreditation bodies will carry out the next regular assessment of the certification bodies according to the new schedule from 1 July 2026 (to be confirmed by Belac).
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The checklist for VCA 2026/6.1 is here to download. (see also attachment)
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The VCA-MAX safety culture combination based on VCA 2026/6.1 can be downloaded from the SSVV webshop. If you have previously purchased VCA-MAX based on VCA 2017/6.0, you will receive a discount code by email to download VCA-MAX 2026/6.1 free of charge once.
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1.7 Is there a systematic approach to the identification and compliance with the relevant HSE legislation applicable to VCA? (*/**/P)
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Decision 8 regarding PO box location abroad included as a footnote in section 10 of the Procedure.
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Decision 1 regarding the exemption from the training requirement for auditors, included as a footnote in Appendix C.
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In Appendix D, Table 3, the bottom line concerning 26 or more branches has been deleted. (For more than 25 branches, the formula must be applied.)
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