New year, new challenges. A lot of information is circulating on the web about changes to the regulations for sole proprietors of ZZP businesses. As is often the case in the modern internet age, much of it is fake news. This article’s title is no exception.We would like to reassure you that there is no provision stating that, as of January 1, all sole proprietors must have VOL-VCA. To address your concerns, we will answer the most common questions we receive.
First, is it true that, as of January 1, all sole proprietors must have a VOL-VCA?
No, this is not true. There has never been such a provision. Due to the fact that the VCA system is not government-run, such a provision will never exist. However, the “VOL panic phenomenon” repeats itself periodically at the beginning of each year. The VOL-VCA is designed for people who perform independent tasks without supervision and for those who supervise them. In other words, it is designed for executives and operational managers of any level. What I wrote is sometimes overinterpreted in the following way: “Since you are a ZZP, you are both an employee and a manager, so you must have a VOL-VCA.” Yes, but only if you are doing the work yourself without supervision and there is no one supervising your work. If a supervisor, manager, or foreman directs your work, you don’t need a VOL-VCA. It doesn’t matter if you are a ZZP. To resolve this, ask yourself:
When I do the work, am I actually being directed by someone? If yes, you don’t need a VOL. If no, you should have a VOL.
My company tells me to do a VOL-VCA. Am I required to do it?
Yes. Any company can tighten its work safety requirements. If your company wants you to have a VOL, then you must take the exam.
Can I take the VOL-VCA exam in Polish?
No, but you can take it in Dutch, English, German, or French. According to SSVV guidelines, the required language proficiency is B2. This level allows you to read and write freely. If you feel comfortable reading in one of these languages, you may attend a two-day VOL-VCA training course.
What is the difference between Basic and VOL?
The VOL course is designed for managers and includes expanded material from the Basic course, as well as topics such as creating and maintaining proper documentation and records, personnel management, emergency management, accident prevention, and preventive health care.
