15 key takeaways from the expert webinar “2026 on the construction site: smooth, safe and inspection-ready”

During the webinar, organized by Conneqtr and Mploy, we shared our insights on the increasing complexity of regulations, document management, and responsibilities within the construction sector.

The common thread? Being inspection-ready today requires a well-thought-out approach that goes beyond collecting documents. Structure, digitalization, and clear agreements throughout the entire chain are essential.

We have listed the key insights for you.

1. Compliance becomes a shared responsibility

Whereas compliance used to rest primarily with the main contractor, this is now shifting to all parties in the chain.

• Regulations are becoming more extensive and there is more control
• More focus on subcontractors
• The Flemish duty of care plays a central role
• Responsibilities are shared more broadly

“Being inspection-ready means: demonstrable control over the entire chain.”

2. Preparation is everything

“Ready for inspection” requires a structured approach with good preparation.

• Documents must be correct in advance
• Everything must be available immediately on the construction site
• Structure and digital tools make the difference

Working proactively is the message.

3. Documentation forms the basis

Correct document management is the backbone of compliance.

Consider, among other things:

• Social and employment documents
• A1 and secondment documents
• Identity and residence documents
• Safety certificates (such as basic safety)

Without proper document management, there is no compliance

4. Timing, follow-up, and preservation are crucial

Not only the documents themselves, but also the timing and the follow-up are decisive.

• Gather everything before the start of the works
• Check daily in the context of the withholding obligation
• Retain documents for a long period
• Ensure immediate availability for inspections

5. Duty to inspect requires vigilance

Contractors do not have to become inspectors, but they must carry out basic checks.

• Check validity and consistency
• Detect errors or irregularities
• Check for completeness

6. Privacy legislation remains applicable

GDPR must also be respected in document management on the construction site.

• Legal obligation forms the basis
• Legitimate interest may play a role (e.g. fraud prevention)
• Transparency and the duty to provide information remain mandatory
• A processing register is mandatory

The distinction between direct and indirect subcontractors determines the legal basis

7. Data must be managed securely.

Construction site data requires robust protection.

• Limit access to sensitive data
• Provide protection against data leaks
• Work with appropriate technical and organizational measures
• ISO 27001 is a relevant reference

8. Inspections follow clear rules

Inspection services have broad powers, but within clear limits.

• Both announced and unannounced checks
• First, voluntary submission of documents
• No random search operations allowed, so-called “fishing expeditions”.
• Only legally required documents are relevant

Digital systems are subject to inspection, but the system itself is not the target; the documents are

9. Non-compliance has serious consequences

Failure to comply with the rules can have a major impact.

• Criminal fines can amount to up to €20,000 per employee
• Joint and several liability in the chain
• Social and tax deductions
• Additional risks due to missing A1 declarations

10. International employment requires extra attention

Working with foreign employees entails additional obligations.

• The A1 declaration is essential
• Without an A1, Belgian social security often applies
• Daily checks in connection with withholding obligation
• Results are only valid on the day of the check-up

11. Contracts and follow-up determine true compliance

Strong contracts are important, but succession is at least as crucial.

• Include clear clauses (e.g., minimum wage and illegal employment)
• Work with sanctions and refusal rights
• Ensure continuous monitoring via systems
• Avoid dependence on one person

12. Flemish duty of care requires nuance

The Flemish duty of care does not automatically mean that every mistake is punished.

• Not every missing document leads to sanctions
• Criminal liability arises primarily from serious infringements
• More control means more responsibility

13. Safety, inspection and basic safety

Working safely remains a shared responsibility on the construction site.

• The Basic Safety Certificate is mandatory and verifiable
• Clients and contractors are required to supervise
• Failure to comply may lead to liability

14. The future is digital and real-time

The sector is evolving rapidly towards full digitalization.

• Real-time attendance registration check-in/check-out (mandatory by 2027)
• Integration with access control
• Automatic document exchange
• Less manual work, more automation

15. In summary

Construction site compliance in 2026 revolves around a combination of:

• Structure
• Digital support
• Responsibility throughout the chain
• Secure data management
• Strong contractual agreements

It is not just about which documents you have, but above all how you manage, follow up on, and can demonstrate them.

You can watch the recording of the webinar here .