In Italy’s public construction sector, regulation and qualification go hand in hand. One of the most specialized yet increasingly vital certifications is SOA OS23, which deals specifically with the demolition of works. While not always mandatory, this certification has become a critical benchmark for credibility, safety, and technical expertise—especially in public tenders and complex demolition projects.
In 2025, as Italy continues its infrastructure upgrades and sustainability goals, understanding and obtaining SOA OS23 is no longer optional for demolition firms aiming to remain competitive. This article outlines everything companies need to know about SOA OS23: its purpose, relevance, technical scope, compliance challenges, and the digital tools shaping its future.
What Is SOA OS23 Certification?
SOA OS23 is an attestation under Annex A of Italian Presidential Decree 207/2010, issued by authorized SOA (Società Organismo di Attestazione) bodies. It certifies a company’s technical and financial capabilities to perform demolition work under public contracts.
Though OS23 is not legally mandatory for every public demolition project, it’s often required in high-value or complex public works, particularly when safety, environmental impact, and controlled dismantling are involved. For companies bidding on public procurement projects exceeding €150,000, SOA certification (in various categories) is a legal prerequisite.
Scope and Coverage: What Projects Fall Under OS23?
The SOA OS23 category specifically encompasses:
- Structural demolition of buildings and infrastructures
- Controlled dismantling using techniques like diamond wire cutting or high-pressure water jets
- Use of explosives for large-scale demolition under strict regulation
- Material separation and waste recycling as part of sustainable demolition practices
- Debris removal and transport for construction site clearance
Firms engaging in these services and aiming to work with government clients must demonstrate compliance with OS23 to boost their chances in tenders and contracts.
Certification Table Snapshot
| SOA Certification | Work Type | Mandatory for Public Tenders? |
|---|---|---|
| OG1 | Civil and Industrial Buildings | Yes |
| OG3 | Road and Bridge Construction | Yes |
| OS23 | Demolition of Works | No (Recommended) |
| OS21 | Special Structural Works | Yes |
As shown above, OS23 isn’t mandatory in every situation, but omitting it could disqualify firms from more complex or sustainability-driven tenders.
How to Obtain SOA OS23 Certification
To apply for SOA OS23, a company must:
- Approach a licensed SOA entity authorized to assess and issue qualifications
- Submit documentation proving:
- Legal standing and compliance history
- Technical capacity (qualified staff, equipment inventory, safety protocols)
- Financial stability and capital adequacy
- Pass a technical audit, including site visits and equipment inspections
- Agree to annual reviews to maintain the certification
Failure to meet documentation or equipment standards can result in denial or revocation of the license. Most firms collaborate with legal and digital compliance consultants to prepare their applications.
