Quality Instruction for Drinking Water Installation (KIAD)

On behalf of all Dutch water companies and Bouwend Nederland, the KIAD Foundation develops and manages the mandatory certification for anyone installing drinking water pipes or working on the distribution network. Currently, two certificates are available:

• General Skilled Person (AVP) – This certificate qualifies technicians to perform all (non-)water technical work on the main and service lines. Holders of the AVP certificate are responsible for ensuring that these activities proceed hygienically and safely. They are authorized to implement and remove associated safety measures.
• Skilled Person Service Lines (VPA) – This certificate qualifies technicians to independently perform all (non-)water technical work on service lines. Holders of the VPA certificate are also authorized to implement and remove associated safety measures.

Wateropleidingen / World Water Academy manages the entire logistics of the certification process. In collaboration with the KIAD examination committee, we manage and develop all exam materials.

The personal certification consists of a theory and a practical exam, based on the learning outcomes defined by KIAD. Once we have verified your vocational diploma, work experience, and some required supplementary certificates, you can participate in the exams. If you are 62 years or older, you may apply for age exemption for the KIAD certification.

The theory exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and lasts 90 minutes. The exam is conducted digitally, and you will receive more information once you meet the admission requirements. The final result will be communicated within 5 working days.

For the practical exam, you choose a location and an available date. You will be informed two weeks in advance whether the practical exam will take place, depending on the number of participants. The practical exam is conducted at various locations and lasts 3 hours. You will be assessed by two examiners, and you will receive the final result within 2 weeks.

If you pass both exams with a score of 5.5 or higher, you will receive the KIAD certificate. This certificate is valid for 4 years. The results of the theory and practical exams remain valid for 12 months from the date of the exam.