_APPOINTING W, WC, AND OC

Essential for safety and compliance within the electrical engineering field


Appointing a W (Worker), WC (Work Controller), and OC (Operation Controller) is a crucial step in ensuring safety and compliance in electrical work. Many professionals in electrical engineering are aware of the importance of certification, but often do not realize that a formal appointment by the employer is just as important. On this page, we take a closer look at the world of W, WC, and OC appointments, their relationship with the EN 50110-1 standard, and why this process is essential for both employees and employers. 

The role of the employer

in appointing W, WC, and OC



Obtaining a certificate as a Worker, Work Controller, or Operation Controller is an important achievement, but it is only the first step. What many people are unaware of is that the employer plays a crucial role in making these qualifications official. After obtaining the certificate, the employer must formally appoint the employee as a W, WC, or OC. These appointments are not merely formalities, but legal requirements that form the foundation for safe working practices and legal protection.


Many companies have already experienced the importance of these formal appointments. For example, a medium-sized installation company in The Netherlands discovered that its insurance did not cover certain claims because the employees involved were certified but not formally appointed. This incident led to a swift revision of their HR policy.

EN 50110-1: The standard that sets the standard Why choose our training? A closer look at the W, WC, and OC appointment procesHet proces van VOP-, VP-, en WV-benoeming onder de loep

EN 50110-1: The standard that sets the standard


Many professionals are familiar with the EN 50110-1 standard that sets a higher benchmark when it comes to safety and compliance in electrical engineering. This standard imposes stricter requirements on the appointment of VOPs, VPs, and WVs, as well as other qualified persons. Compliance with the EN 50110-1 standard ensures:  

  • Increased workplace safety
  • Better legal protection for both employer and employee
  • Improved quality of electrical work
  • Clearer allocation of tasks and responsibilities

A recent study among companies showed that organizations that strictly follow the EN 50110-1 guidelines report 40% fewer incidents than companies that don't.

Why choose our training?

 

  • Up-to-date Content: Our course content is continuously updated to ensure you stay informed about the latest techniques and safety protocols.
  • Recognized Certification: You will receive a recognized certificate upon completion of the training, demonstrating that you meet the requirements of the EN 50110-1 standard.
  • Flexible Learning: Whether you choose an online course via our Learning Management System (LMS) or a hands-on workshop, we offer an option that fits your learning style and schedule.


A closer look at the W, WC, and OC appointment process


Appointing a W, WC, or OC involves more than simply signing a document. It is a careful process consisting of several steps:

  1. Certification: The employee obtains the required certificate. 
  2. Assessment: The employer evaluates the employee’s competencies and experience. 
  3. Formal appointment: An official document is prepared and signed. 
  4. Job description: Clear definition of responsibilities and authorities. 
  5. Periodic evaluation: Regular reviews to ensure that the VOP, VP, and WV status remains up to date.

This process ensures that every W, WC, and OC is not only qualified on paper, but also competent in practice to perform their duties safely.


Would you like to see an example of a correct 
appointment letter for a W, WC, or OC? 

Download a template appointment letter that you can use within your own organization.

Download Appointment letter

​The legal implications of proper 
W, WC, and OC appointments​


Een van de meest onderschatte aspecten van het benoemen van VOP's, VP's, en WV's is de juridische bescherming die het biedt. Zonder formele benoeming worden medewerkers, ongeacht hun certificering, als 'leek' beschouwd volgen One of the most underestimated aspects of appointing Ws, WCs, and OCs is the legal protection it provides. Without formal appointment, employees are regarded as ‘laypersons’ under the EN 50110-1 standard, regardless of their certification. This has far-reaching consequences:

  • Increased risk of liability in the event of accident
  • Potential issues with insurance claims
  • Non-compliance with statutory safety regulations 

An employment law attorney noted:

"I increasingly see cases where formal appointment makes the difference between liability and exemption. It is a small detail that can have major consequences."

John DOE • CEO of MyCompany
​

Implementing an effective appointment policy.


For companies looking to improve their W, WC, and OC appointment process, there are several best practices:

  • Create a clear appointment protocol
  •  Ensure regular refresher training and evaluation
  •  Maintain an up-to-date register of all appointed Ws, WCs, and OCs
  • Communicate responsibilities and authorities clearly 
  •  Integrate the appointment process into the broader safety policy

Companies that follow this approach see not only improvements in safety, but also in efficiency and employee satisfaction.

Conclusion: Take action for safety and compliance.

Appointing VOPs, VPs, and WVs is more than a formality; it is an essential step in ensuring safety, quality, and legal protection within the electrical engineering sector. By using the EN 50110-1 standard as a guideline and implementing a robust appointment process, companies can make a significant contribution to a safer working environment and a stronger market position.

Who is required to comply with NEN 9140

For an overview of all obligations arising from the​ ​​EN 50110-1 norm​ ​

Different levels within EN 50110-1​

You can read more about the differences in responsibilities and 
authorities of Ws, WCs, and OCs in  Different levels within EN 50110-1 .


Want to be sure that your employees are fully qualified and formally appointed in accordance with the ​EN 50110-1 standard? 

Visit our webshop and discover our Learning Management System (LMS), which helps you implement an effective appointment policy.

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Are you responsible for workplace safety?

Learn more about the W, WC, and OC appointment process in our comprehensive LMS. Visit our webshop and get started today.

Ensure that your company complies with the highest safety standards

Explore our training courses and materials in the webshop, specifically developed for W, WC, and OC appointments.