SOA OS23 Certification: Demolition Qualification in Italy’s Evolving Digital Landscape

Introduction: SOA OS23 and the Changing Face of Construction Compliance

Italy’s construction and demolition industry is undergoing a digital and regulatory transformation — and at the center of it is SOA OS23, a specialized certification required (or increasingly recommended) for companies involved in demolition works for public tenders.

Whether you’re a structural demolition firm or a general contractor preparing for a public procurement bid, understanding SOA OS23 is no longer optional. This article offers a complete guide to what SOA; OS23 is, who needs it, how to get it, and how digital tools are reshaping its role.

What Is SOA OS23?

SOA’ OS23 refers to a certification category under Italy’s SOA (Società Organismo di Attestazione) system, specifically for the demolition of civil or industrial structures. It is listed under Annex A of Presidential Decree 207/2010, and while not always legally mandatory, it is now often required by public authorities to assess contractor credibility.

Why Is SOA OS23 Important in 2025?

The Italian government, through its Public Procurement Code, mandates SOA certification for companies seeking public works contracts over €150,000. Though OS23 is labeled “optional,” many local authorities and municipalities now require it for demolition projects to:

• Ensure environmental safety
  
• Confirm technical capability
  
• Validate financial standing
  
• Simplify project oversight through digital records
  

SOA OS23, in this context, is both a qualification and a signal of professionalism in the public works sector.

Scope of SOA OS23 Certification

OS23 covers a broad range of demolition operations, including:

• Explosive demolition
  
• Hydraulic cutting and precision dismantling
  
• Mechanical and robotic deconstruction
  
• Recycling and material separation for sustainability
  
• Handling hazardous substances or asbestos
  

Companies qualified under OS23 are expected to perform high-risk, high-impact demolition work, particularly where environmental and structural safety are critical.

Who Needs SOA OS23?

You should pursue SOA OS23 certification if you operate in:

• Civil engineering and demolition of buildings
  
• Industrial plant decommissioning
  
• Large-scale infrastructure demolition (bridges, tunnels)
  
• Controlled dismantling involving hazardous materials or historical zones
  
• Any firm aiming to bid on public demolition contracts in Italy
  

Even if your contract doesn’t require it by law, having SOA OS23 gives your firm a competitive advantage and positions you as a trusted vendor.

The SOA Certification Framework in Italy

SOA certifications are divided into OG (general) and OS (specialist) categories. Each category reflects the type of public work a contractor is qualified to perform.

SOA Category	Description	Mandatory for Public Tenders
OG1	Civil and Industrial Construction	Yes
OG3	Road and Bridge Infrastructure	Yes
OS23	Demolition of Structures	Optional (but recommended)
OS8	Waterproofing and Insulation Systems	Varies
OS21	Special Structural Work	Yes

How to Obtain SOA OS23 Certification

To get certified under OS23, a company must go through the following steps with an authorized SOA body:

1. Submit documentation for legal standing, financial capacity, and safety compliance.
   
2. Provide proof of:
   
   • Completed demolition projects
     
   • Qualified staff and technicians
     
   • Adequate equipment and tools
     
   • Environmental protection measures
     
3. Undergo technical audits and financial checks.
   
4. Receive a certificate valid for five years, with a mandatory three-year review.
   

Trends Influencing SOA OS23 in the Digital Era

Inspired by industry leaders and recent updates, several macro-trends are shaping the role of SOA OS23:

1. Green Demolition & Sustainability

Environmental responsibility is a key priority. SOA OS23-certified companies are now expected to:

• Recycle debris and raw materials
  
• Use low-emission equipment
  
• Implement material separation at source
  
• Reduce dust and noise pollution through newer techniques
  

2. BIM and GIS Integration

Digital tools are becoming integral to demolition planning and certification:

• BIM (Building Information Modeling): Simulate and visualize demolition phases
  
• GIS Mapping: Analyze geographic and structural challenges in real-time
  

These tools streamline certification and help demonstrate preparedness during audits.

3. AI & Automation

Firms are integrating AI-driven systems to:

• Monitor equipment wear
  
• Predict safety risks
  
• Digitally track compliance status
  

4. Digital Credentialing Platforms

Authorities now offer online submission portals where firms can:

• Upload audit documentation
  
• Request renewals
  
• Receive compliance updates
  

Challenges in Maintaining OS23 Certification

Challenge	Solution
Technical skill gaps	Provide staff training in demolition tech
Equipment non-compliance	Upgrade machinery and safety tools
Incomplete documentation	Use digital checklists and consultants
Certification expiration	Use automated renewal tracking tools

Digital Architecture’s Role in OS23 Workflows

Firms like UrbanWorks Group and EcoBuild Ltd have successfully digitized their OS23-related processes using:

• Blockchain records to prove eco-disposal of materials
  
• Cloud tools to prepare for audits
  
• Digital twins of sites to improve demolition planning
  

This shows how digital architecture and demolition compliance are merging, leading to faster certifications, fewer errors, and greater transparency.

To explore more about SOA OS23 certification, its categories, and how it fits into Italy’s digital construction landscape, check out the resources below:

FAQs on SOA OS23

1. What does SOA mean?

In this context, SOA refers to “Società Organismo di Attestazione”, the certified bodies in Italy that issue qualifications for public works companies.

2. What is SOA OS23?

SOA’ OS23 is a specialized certification for companies that want to carry out demolition works in Italy’s public procurement sector.

3. Who needs SOA OS23?

Any contractor involved in structural demolition, controlled dismantling, or environmental site clearance looking to bid on public projects in Italy.

4. What work does OS23 cover?

It includes explosive demolition, hydraulic cutting, robotic dismantling, and recycling of demolished materials — ensuring both technical safety and environmental care.

5. How to get SOA OS23 certified?

Apply via an SOA-accredited body by submitting documents, passing technical audits, proving demolition experience, and showing compliance with safety and legal standards.

6. Is SOA OS23 mandatory?

It is not legally mandatory for all projects, but it is frequently required in public tenders and greatly improves chances of selection.

7. Is SOA OS23 recognized internationally?

No — it is Italy-specific, governed by local procurement law. However, it shows high compliance and technical excellence, which may benefit firms working internationally.

Final Thoughts: Is SOA OS23 a Future-Proof Investment?

Absolutely. SOA OS23 certification is no longer just a formality — it’s a strategic asset. With Italy modernizing its tendering systems and environmental regulations tightening, certified companies will be better equipped to:

• Win high-value public contracts
  
• Meet digital compliance requirements
  
• Prove technical and financial capability
  
• Stay ahead of sustainability expectations
  

Whether you’re preparing to enter Italy’s public works sector or want to future-proof your demolition business, SOA OS23 is your gateway to trust, transparency, and transformation.

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