There are many occupations in our country, and holders of certain professions are required to obtain specific certifications. Within the framework of various laws, numerous jobs with different qualifications fall under this requirement. In this article we answer the question: “In which professions or jobs is obtaining a certificate mandatory?”
Not all professions are equally demanding. Some jobs are relatively easy, while others are heavy and hazardous. People working in heavy and dangerous occupations are required to obtain certain certificates before starting their jobs. Decisions accepted by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey have placed many professions under compulsory certification.
Initially, the obligation to obtain a vocational qualification certificate applies primarily to heavy and dangerous jobs. However, it has been stated that over time additional professions may be included in this scope. Workers in heavy and hazardous fields belong to the occupational groups for which a vocational qualification certificate is compulsory. As a result, employing unlicensed personnel in these fields is considered an offense.
Vocational Qualification Certificate
A vocational qualification indicates that a person has specialized in their job and possesses the necessary knowledge and skills. Today, the vocational qualification certificate is commonly understood as a credential granted to individuals who work under demanding conditions. The vocational qualification certificate is aligned with European Union-related projects and aims to ensure work is performed more safely.
Certain conditions must be met to obtain a vocational qualification certificate. Under national laws, many occupations are required to hold this certificate. This requirement aims to reduce the increasing number of workplace accidents and to create safer working environments for employees.
Applicants for a vocational qualification certificate are evaluated through exams or similar assessment methods related to their applied field. Successful candidates are then granted vocational qualification certificates. There is no legal provision preventing an individual from holding multiple vocational qualification certificates in different professions.
Professions Required to Hold a Vocational Qualification Certificate
Not every profession is currently required to obtain this certificate. However, announcements indicate that additional occupations may be added in the future. Priority for vocational qualification certification has been given to those working in heavy and dangerous jobs. Below is a list of profession groups that are currently subject to the certificate requirement:
- Timber Formwork Carpenter.
- Welder.
- Chimney Sweep.
- Reinforced Concrete Ironworker.
- Personnel in sub-professions related to natural gas work.
- Workers performing labor in any area of the construction sector.
- Elevator Installation and Maintenance Technician.
- Masonry Workers.
- Formwork Carpenters.
- Professionals working with hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
- Thermal Insulation Installers.
- CNC Programmers.
- Acoustic Insulation Installers.
- Aluminum Welders.
- Scaffolding Erection Personnel.
- Assembly Technicians in the Automotive Field.
- Mechanics.
- Electromechanics.
- Machine Maintenance Technicians.
- Resistance Welding Setters.
- Plasterboard Installers.
- Welding Operators.
- Tunnel Formwork Carpenters.
Individuals working in these fields may not work without vocational qualification certificates. Inspections will be carried out by labor inspectors. If someone is found working without the required certificate, administrative fines will be imposed on the employer or their representative. The vocational qualification requirement was adopted by the Parliament on April 4, 2015, and has been implemented since then.
The law also provides several exemptions. Certain documents exempt their holders from the vocational qualification requirement. These documents include:
- Mastership Certificate (Ustalık Belgesi)
- Vocational High School Diploma
- Vocational Qualification Certificate
- University or Higher Education Diploma
Conversely, some certificates are considered invalid under the law. Certificates obtained from non-accredited vocational training institutions, certificates from İŞKUR courses, and apprenticeship-journeyman certificates are not accepted as substitutes for the vocational qualification certificate.