Verification of Competency (VOC) is a structured assessment method used to confirm that workers can perform specific tasks safely and effectively, based on current site conditions, equipment and procedures.
In high-risk industries like construction, manufacturing, transport and distribution, competency is critical to safe operations and cannot be assumed based on past training alone. Workers must be able to demonstrate capability in the context of current operational demands.
Unlike training, Verification of Competency focuses on assessment and validation, rather than instruction. It is a structured workplace method used to confirm that workers can perform specific tasks safely and effectively based on current site conditions, equipment and procedures. We provide VOC assessment to ensure your workforce can perform high-risk and operational tasks safely, efficiently and in line with Australian WHS requirements.
Ensure onsite safety with VOC Assessments
- Comply with Australian WHS compliance requirements Demonstrate that workers have been assessed as competent to perform their tasks in line with relevant WHS obligations.
- Reduce incidents across high-risk environmentsMinimize the likelihood of accidents, injuries and equipment damage.
- Ensure alignment with site-specific procedures and equipment Workers understand local operating requirements, site hazards and emergency processes.
- Maintain productivity by identifying targeted training needsKnowledge gaps can be identified early, avoiding unnecessary downtime.
- Support contractor and client compliance requirementsShow that workers meet required competency standards before work commences.
Why choose SGS Academy?
We provide competency verification backed by global expertise in inspection, testing and certification. All assessments are conducted by a qualified and experienced assessor. This ensures your VOC program is:
- Consistent across sites and operations
- Suitable for audit and compliance requirements
- Delivered with a focus on safety, quality and reliability
FAQ
VOC is suitable for businesses involved with:
- Construction and infrastructure projects
- Manufacturing and processing facilities
- Transport and logistics operations
- Warehousing and distribution centers
It is relevant for workers who:
- Perform high-risk or licensed activities
- Operate plant equipment or machinery
- Require site-based competency verification
- Are returning to work after periods of inactivity
SGS delivers VOC assessments across key high-risk and operational areas, including:
- Working at heights
- Confined space entry
- Elevated work platforms
- Forklift operations
- Breathing apparatus
- Plant and machinery
- High-risk work, including dogging, rigging and crane operations
SGS offers VOC assessments that follow a consistent and auditable process:
- Consultation
Define operational scope, job roles and site requirements. - Planning
Align assessments with relevant units of competency. - Assessment
Conduct knowledge-based and practical evaluation. - Evaluation
Assess performance against competency standards. - Reporting
Provide formal documentation and recommendations.
VOC assessments from SGS are designed to reflect real operational environments across the construction, manufacturing, transport and distribution sectors. They:
- Help ensure alignment with nationally recognized units of competency
- Provide practical assessments in real or simulated workplace conditions
- Contextualize equipment, procedures and risk profiles
- Are delivered by experienced, industry-qualified assessors
Where competency is demonstrated, the participant will receive:
- Verification of Competency Certificate of Completion confirming that they have been assessed as competent to perform the specified task(s) or role, in accordance with agreed site or organizational requirements
- Identification card if required by the site
Where competency gaps are identified, the participant will receive:
- Detailed feedback and assessment results
- Recommendations for refresher training or reassessment
SGS can deliver a VOC assessment:
- Onsite, at your workplace
- At an SGS training facility (where appropriate and applicable)
- As a customized program aligned with your operations
Training provides foundational knowledge, but VOC ensures workers can apply that knowledge safely in current, real-world conditions using specific equipment and procedures.
Participants usually need to provide evidence of previous training, such as a Statement of Attainment or a High-Risk Work License. They also need to be able to provide or have access to the relevant plant equipment on the day of the assessment.
Important note:
A Verification of Competency does not replace training or certification. It is an assessment process designed to validate existing competence and identify whether additional training may be required.