The construction and demolition sectors are already used to dealing with legal and regulatory complexities and new technologies. One hot topic is SOA OS23, one of the most essential certifications in Italian public works. This blog will discuss SOA OS23 and how it influences compliance, sustainability, and digital transformation in construction, specifically demolition.
After reading, you should know the scope of SOA OS23, where it crops up in a public tender, some regulatory hot topics, and how digital architecture is changing how we handle certification and demolition planning.
Table of Contents
What is SOA OS23?
SOA OS23 translates as qualification for demolition of works (demolizione di opere). Regulated by Annex A of the Italian Presidential Decree 207/2010, the attestation is crucial to demonstrate that companies have the technical capabilities to work on public works.
Importance of SOA OS23 in Public Tenders
Certification is essential for companies that submit tenders to the Public Sector Purchase Programme under OS23. It demonstrates they are competent, safe, and operating within tight regulations. Certification is vital for firms that offer controlled demolition, including structural dismantling, industrial plant dismantling, and the removal of reinforced concrete.
| SOA Certification Categories | Coverage | Mandatory for Public Works |
|---|---|---|
| OG1 | Civil and Industrial Buildings | Yes |
| OG3 | Road and Bridge Construction | Yes |
| OS23 | Demolition of Works | No (Optional but Valuable) |
| OS21 | Special Structural Works | Yes |
Table 1. Example of SOA Certification Categories (Relevant for Public Tenders in Italy).
While possession of OS23 is not always mandatory, government works contracts are progressively requiring tenderers to have this certification in place to ensure credibility and professionalism.
Who Needs SOA OS23 Certification?
Businesses involved in:
- Demolition of civil structures or industrial plants using explosives or high-pressure techniques.
- Controlled demolitions require precise cutting, such as diamond sawing or abrasive cutting.
- Sustainable demolition methods with material separation and waste recycling.
The certificate OS23 gives these companies an advantage and is also required for achieving public works awards.
The Role of SOA Certifications in Public Works
SOA Certification Framework in Italy
SOA certifications confirm a firm’s technical and financial ability to participate in public works tenders. Additionally, SOA has multiple certification categories, both OG and OS categories, guaranteeing specialised knowledge for various construction niches.
Legal Mandates for SOA
Under the Italian Public Procurement Code, SOA is mandatory for contracts over €150,000. OS23 Certification is not compulsory for OS23 but is beneficial, as it increases credibility for high-value or complex demolition works.
| Requirement | Impact |
|---|---|
| Certification Standards | Proof of compliance with construction laws |
| Audit of Equipment and Staff | Assurance of safety and skill adequacy |
| Annual Compliance Monitoring | Aligning with emerging public work norms |
Through SOA, authorities maintain a uniform regulatory framework for public works across Italy.
How SOA OS23 Aligns with Broader SOA Standards
SOA OS23 also crosscuts other particular categories, such as OG1 and OS8, showcasing how the integration of demolition and reconstruction and multidisciplinary capacity is increasingly required.
| Specialized Demolition Techniques | Controlled Methods |
|---|---|
| Explosives | Used for critical timelines |
| Hydraulic Demolition | Precision cutting for high-stakes projects |
| Material Separation | Focused on sustainability |
Building such capabilities as part of OS23 ensures the qualification maintains compliance and leverages innovation effectively.
Trends Shaping SOA OS23 in 2025 and Beyond
Forecast Interval For the future, SOA OS24 is expected to develop under the technology integration, as well as the increasing market demands for construction. Some trends are already redefining standards for compliance.
1. Stricter Green Demolition Standards
Environmental standards are no longer up for discussion. Sustainable demolition techniques such as material separation and recycling will be necessary for continued SOA OS23 compliance.
| Eco-Friendly Approach | Impact on Future Compliance |
|---|---|
| Recycled Aggregates | Promotes circular construction practices |
| Low-Emission Equipment | Reduces carbon footprints |
2. Advanced Digital Tools Revolutionising Workflows
With tools such as BIM (Building Information Modelling) and GIS (Geographical Information Systems) already enabling better planning, execution, and documentation in the field of demolition, the potential to further optimise time and cost looks promising. For example:
- BIM Integration: Supports precise modelling for regulatory approvals.
- GIS Mapping: Identifies environmental and structural constraints in real time.
3. Adoption of AI and Automation
AI for predictive maintenance of demolition processes. These enhancements translate to increased safety and production efficiency, and reduced costs.
4. Digital Credentialing
Digital transformation is extending into SOA certifications as digital portals enable:
- Online submissions for compliance.
- Automated updates for regulatory changes.
The digital age rapidly reconfigures how SOA OS23 interacts with the public and private sectors.
Challenges in Obtaining and Maintaining SOA OS23
Achieving SOA OS23 requires effort. From documentation to regular inspections, here are common pain points businesses need to consider:
| Challenge | How to Mitigate |
|---|---|
| Detailed Documentation | Invest in consultancy to streamline compliance prep |
| Equipment Deficiency | Upgrade to meet technological or safety standards |
| Expired Certifications | Track renewal periods to avoid seismic disruptions |
Tips for Navigating Certification
- Collaborate with partners who specialise in SOA application services.
- Stay updated on new legislation that may expand OS23 obligations.
- Train employees using digitised education platforms aligned with OS23 standards.
Digital Architecture Impacting Demolition Workflows
How Tech Enables Seamless Certification Processes
Digital systems simplify the complex layers of SOA OS23 compliance and evaluation. Case in Point:
- AI-driven databases collate and analyse regulatory data.
- Blockchain-enabled tracking of environmental parameters in hazardous demolitions.
Digitised workflows are not only enhancing regulatory transparency but also reducing operational friction.
Real-Life Implementation of Digital Tools in OS23
- EcoBuild Ltd integrated BIM to conduct simulated safety tests ahead of government tenders.
- UrbanWorks Group automated OS23 compliance audits through GIS-enabled systems.
Success stories like these underline the power of technology in achieving and maintaining certifications.
Paving the Future of SOA OS23 Compliance
With tighter standards, digitised verification systems, and ever-increasing sustainability standards, SOA OS23 certification is no longer the work of mere goodwill. Still, it is becoming a strategic imperative for organisations looking to remain competitive. This move demonstrates a higher call for more innovative and sustainable business methods across industry sectors.
To keep your business fit in the future, you need to establish long-term strategies to ensure sustainable compliance. Identify your strategy with these new norms to prepare you for new challenges. Furthermore, using advanced software that combines demolition thoughts with those in digital architecture can refine operations, create better conditions, and ensure compliance.
Equally important is training your staff. Developing business agility and compliance expertise in your team will help you stay ahead of new regulations and industry developments. Whether you’re a construction firm overseeing intricate demolition jobs or a digital advisor looking for more intelligent governance tools, SOA OS23 certification offers a clear route to innovation, compliance , and growth.
FAQs
SOA OS23 is the demolition certification in Italy that enables a company to tender for public demolition contracts. It is part of the activity series OS23, which encompasses structural demolition, controlled dismantling, and site clearance. This certification is for all companies wishing to participate in bids for public works involving these projects. It should be obtained through an authorised SOA (Società Organismo di Attestazione) body.
Category OS23 encompasses a variety of demolition methods, including explosive demolition, mechanical dismantling, and push-pull demolition. It also includes operating equipment to partially or completely demolish buildings and other structures, including moving the demolished elements away from the worksite or loading them for transport.
An SOA company must apply through an SOA entity to receive its SOA OS23 certification. The scrutiny concerns legal, technical capability, financial stability, or the company’s compliance history.
A few words on the SOA OS23 License SOA OS23 License is essential since it is the evidence that a company can undertake demolition of public projects. Where it is not provided, companies are prevented by law from tendering for category OS23 work in the public sector.
SOA OS23 applies to the Italian public procurement system and is governed by the Italian regulations. Although the industry does not officially accept it as a certification standard in countries other than Italy, a SOA OS23 proves that a company complies with rigorous national demolition standards.
