Many European construction companies require their employees to have the appropriate construction qualifications and certificates. Why is this so important? In order to be able to work legally in a given country and operate specific equipment or perform specialist tasks. Depending on the country, the regulations may differ. It is therefore worth knowing the basic rules and procedures for obtaining construction qualifications in the most popular countries to which Polish specialists go.

Also read: Construction sector in Poland – what are the employment forecasts for the coming years?

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Construction qualifications in Poland


In Poland, in order to obtain construction qualifications, it is necessary to meet several requirements. Usually, it is required to complete appropriate technical studies or obtain professional qualifications at a technical school. After obtaining education, you must complete a professional internship (at least 1-2 years) in a chosen specialization, e.g. architecture, installation or construction and building. The qualifications are granted by the Polish Chamber of Civil Engineers, which conducts a theoretical and practical exam.

Additional certificates, such as SEP for work on electrical installations, can be obtained in accredited institutions after appropriate training and an exam.

Construction qualifications in Germany – Meisterbrief and others


In Germany, the key document confirming qualifications in technical professions, including construction, is the Meisterbrief, i.e. the title of master. First, you must complete a vocational school or vocational courses that end with obtaining the title of Geselle (journeyman). To be able to apply for the title of master, you need at least several years of experience. It is therefore a long process that includes both theoretical and practical knowledge.

In addition to the Meisterbrief, certificates confirming the ability to operate construction machinery or knowledge of electrical installations are also important – e.g. certificates issued by TÜV or DEKRA institutes.

Construction qualifications in France. CAP and BTS certificates


In France, in order to work in the construction industry, you can obtain several types of certificates and diplomas that allow you to practice your profession. CAP (Certificat d’Aptitude Professionnelle) is a basic professional certificate that can be obtained after completing a vocational school or courses. It gives you basic qualifications to work on a construction site. In turn, BTS (Brevet de Technicien Supérieur) is a higher technical certificate that allows you to perform more complex work. It usually requires 2 years of study and ends with an exam.

Professionals can also obtain certificates recognized in the European Union, such as those issued by AFNOR or Bureau Veritas, which confirm qualifications in electrical installations or HVAC systems.

The Netherlands. VCA and DNV GL


In the Netherlands, there are specific requirements for construction qualifications. VCA (Veiligheid, Gezondheid en Milieu Checklist Aannemers) is a safety certificate required on construction sites. There are different levels of VCA – Basic VCA, VCA VOL (for managers) and VIL VCU (for recruiters). In addition, Dutch construction companies often require certificates confirming knowledge of working with construction machinery or electrical systems, issued by DNV GL, which is an internationally recognized certification institute.

The chance to have your qualifications recognised throughout the EU


Thanks to the European Union directive on the recognition of professional qualifications, people with the appropriate certificates can apply for their recognition in other EU countries:

  • The IMI system (Internal Market Information System) enables the exchange of information between countries, which speeds up the process of recognising certificates.
  • The EU professional card is a document confirming the recognition of qualifications in a given EU country, which facilitates professional mobility in Europe.

Summary


Obtaining construction qualifications and certificates is necessary to work on European construction sites. Depending on the country, the requirements for education, professional practice and exams may vary. Therefore, it is worth familiarising yourself in detail with the requirements in the place where you intend to work.