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The independent trade association has been more active than ever in recent years. An interview with chairman Ton Groeneweg about the motto "building reliability" and the many activities the NVAF is engaged in.
The NVAF originated as an association in 1947 and has been an independent organization since 2006. "We are quite proud of that," says Groeneweg. "In recent years, we've been making considerable headway. For example, the structure has changed and a director has been appointed: Jaap Estié. This frees up 'our' hands to be much more active and to engage even more with external organizations, including governments. In this way we underline the importance of our branch and work towards a well-founded confidence in the branch as a whole."
"NVAF is originally an association for foundation companies actively practicing the trade," Groeneweg continued. "We also welcome associated companies that are indirectly related to our profession, such as engineering firms, machine suppliers and accessory suppliers. Developments move fast and standards change. A broad scope is essential. Associate members can make an important contribution to this." Some of the many activities of the NVAF, whether or not initiated from various committees and working groups: providing internal advocacy in the areas of working conditions, safety, training, techniques and standardization. Publishing guidelines used by government or clients. Preparing contractual matters, such as standard specification texts, general conditions, and so on. "We also put a lot of time and energy into a safe living and working environment. For example, a new guideline has been drafted for performing foundation work in a public environment."
The topic of sustainability is also a major focus for the NVAF. Groeneweg: "Companies have invested millions in machines for a period of twenty years or more. You don't transform these 'just like that' into emission-free machines. The sustainability working group, made up of people with a great deal of expertise and knowledge of equipment, is looking closely at what governments require of us and how we as a trade association and members can act on this together. So the various committees and working groups within the NVAF are doing incredibly important work," Groeneweg summarizes. "It is nice for our members; they are not alone."
There is no shortage of activities at the NVAF. "Twice a year we organize a General Members Meeting and inform the members about the progress and the 'ups and downs' of the committees and working groups, among other things. In addition, theme meetings are organized on more specific topics, such as insurance and occupational health and safety. Our association has a great social character. We are a close-knit community in which interests are represented that are unanimously shared. In this respect, we eagerly look forward to the post-Covid-19 period. Never mind that even during the lockdown, we are organizing regular online sessions and webinars. We are not sitting still. We continue to continually build reliability. Perhaps right now more than ever."
