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SCL

SCL for your organisation

Deadline 1 July 2026: Get ready for the next step

Do you want to continue competing in construction and engineering tenders? If so, action is needed now. From 1 July 2026, clients who subscribe to the Governance Code for Safety in Construction (GCVB) will require at least step 3 on the Safety Culture Ladder (SCL).

Many companies are hiccupping this step. This is understandable, but unnecessary. The transition to Step 3 is not an impregnable fortress; it is a logical next step in your operations. However, do not wait until the last moment. The agendas of certifying bodies are already filling up. Avoid falling by the wayside later and start today.

No piles of paper, but safe working

The Safety Culture Ladder is substantially different from systems such as ISO or the standards of other organisations. Whereas those standards focus on rules and procedures, the SCL is all about people. It is a hallmark for attitude, behaviour and culture.

Features at a glance:

  • No system: No need to write new manuals. The SCL complements your existing agreements.
  • Practice rules: We are not looking at whether it is right on paper, but whether people are working safely and consciously in the workplace.
  • Integral security: It is about physical safety, but also psychosocial safety. Do colleagues dare to speak to each other? Does management listen to signals?
  • Certificate with step: You will receive an official certificate showing the achieved step (e.g. step 3). Possible up to step 4.
  • Validity: The certificate is valid for three years. In the intervening years, shorter audits take place to check that you still meet the requirements.

The web tool, your starting point for insight

Many companies do not know where to start. The SCL Web tool solves this. Don't think of it as an exam, but as a thermometer. By filling in the questionnaire (SAQ), you get an instant view of where your organisation stands.

Completing the web tool is the first step to opening the 'black box'. You immediately see where your strengths lie and where there is room for improvement. This gives you concrete tools to start working in a targeted way, even before the auditor visits.

Five steps to your certificate

We make the process clear. Follow this step-by-step plan to work towards Step 3 without surprises.

Step 1: Reading and understanding

Know what you are getting into. Read the standard and explanatory notes to understand what safety awareness means. Look at the certification scheme for the ground rules around assessment. This gives peace of mind and clarity in the process.

Step 2: Self-assessment (Zero measurement)

You first conduct your own assessment. We recommend using the SCL Web tool (SAQ) for this purpose.

  • You complete the questionnaire.
  • You will immediately see your current level.
  • You define actions to strengthen your safety culture.
  • Tip: You may also use another tool, but the SCL Webtool fits seamlessly with the audit.

Step 3: The Audit (The practice check)

Are you ready? Then the Certifying Body (CI) will come along. Don't be afraid of a 'checklist check'.

  • People's work: The auditors conduct interviews (interviews) and look around the office and your project sites (observations).
  • Four-eye principle: There will always be two auditors. This ensures an objective and fair view.
  • Reporting: You will receive a clear report. This shows which step you are on and where you can still grow.

Step 4: Certification

Do you meet the requirements? Then you will receive the certificate from your CI. They will ensure that your certificate is registered in the official NEN-SCL register. You are now visible as a safety-conscious partner to your clients.

Step 5: Stay sharp

Culture is never 'finished'. Your certificate is valid for three years. Shorter follow-up audits take place in the intervening years. This keeps the focus on safety alive and ensures that you do not relapse. After three years, the cycle starts again.

 

Important: Take action now

Achieving Step 3 takes time, especially the preparation and scheduling of the audit.

  • Full agendas: There is a limited number of auditors available in the Netherlands. Towards 2026, there will be a peak. Therefore, book your CI well in advance.
  • Start small: Start the self-assessment in the web tool today. It takes little time and provides immediate direction.
  • File: Deliver your self-assessment to the CB in advance or give them access via the web tool. This helps auditors prepare properly.
View the list of affiliated CIs
Go directly to the SCL Webtool

Step-by-step plan SCL