Control Union – AKF

AKF – Agrarisch Keurmerk Flexwonen

The Agrarisch Keurmerk Flexwonen (AKF) is a quality mark for housing provided to international workers in the Dutch agricultural and horticultural sectors. It enables employers to demonstrate good employment practices and meet high standards for accommodation. Control Union is an independent, authorised body that conducts audits and provides AKF certification to organisations meeting the requirements.

Control Union – AKF

    What is AKF?

    In a competitive labour market, providing high-quality housing is crucial for attracting and retaining valuable international employees. AKF certification offers a formal confirmation of an organisation’s commitment to worker welfare. This certification not only enhances an employer’s reputation but also provides the legal framework for deducting housing costs from wages. As an experienced partner, Control Union can support businesses throughout the entire certification process, from application to the final audit.

    Why choose Control Union as your certification partner?

    • Global and local customer-focused employees with broad knowledge and years of (practical) experience. We guide you through the changing world of certifications.

    • We conduct audits and certifications with a human touch. We enjoy contributing ideas on how to take your company to the next level and communicate clearly about the certification process.

    • Control Union understands the importance of acting quickly, which is why our auditors will visit you for the audit as soon as possible after your request, always in consultation with you, of course.

    Add-ons

    Control Union also offers add-ons for this programme

    • Manufacturing companies

    Features of AKF

    Control Union – AKF
    1.

    Attract and retain staff

    Distinguish an organisation as a preferred employer by demonstrating a commitment to high-quality worker accommodation.

    2.

    Authorised wage deductions

    Certification provides the legal basis to deduct housing costs from an employee’s wages, up to the defined maximum.

    3.

    Flexible housing options

    The AKF standard enables the certification of various housing types, including mobile units and seasonal accommodations.

    4.

    Demonstrate good practice

    Gain independent confirmation of quality housing for international workers (huisvesting internationale werknemers), strengthening stakeholder trust.

    5.

    Efficient audit planning

    Combine the AKF audit with a GLOBALG.A.P. audit to save time and resources for the organisation.

    Control Union – agri
    In a constantly changing environment, we are working with supply chain partners to create a demonstrably more sustainable future.
    Vincent van Tol – Control Union Certifications

    This is how certification with Control Union works

    In outline, we go through these 6 steps. We’ll tell you all about it at the start of the project.

    Applying for certification

    Apply by using the contact details at the bottom of this page

    Determining scope of certification

    Together, we discuss the details and scope of your application. Which processes, products and/or locations would you like to have certified?

    Quotation & contract

    After establishing exact scopes and auditing times, you’ll receive our quote.

    After agreement, you may start the preparation phase.

    Audit planning, preparation, execution and reporting

    You will be assigned one of our qualified and independent auditors. We’ll reach out to you to check if you’re ready for the initial audit. If needed, we’ll provide additional information to help to prepare.

    Good to go? The initial audit is planned, carried out and reported.

    Review

    During the audit, we will assess if you meet the requirements. After that, we will confirm if you’ve fully complied, if there are things to improve, or if there are any non-conformities.

    Together, we will discuss our findings, plan of action and planning in case of non-conformities. In case your chosen program includes a logo, we will discuss this too.

    Receiving your certificate

    If all non-conformities are resolved and everything has been assessed positively, the certification decision follows.

    Depending on the type of certification:
    • you are allowed to trade using the certificate
    • you are executing the process according to the guidelines
    • you are allowed to name the certificate on your website
    Some certificates allow you to use the certificate’s logo. We will provide you with guidelines for this.

    The certification process does not end here, annual audits ensure consistent quality!

    Global coverage, local knowledge

    “Control Union provides peace of mind in supply chains worldwide. Thanks to our up-to-date knowledge and experience, we cover all aspects of the supply and value chain in various industries. We think along, communicate clearly and offer concrete solutions. As a ‘one-stop shop’ for international and local certificates, we make certification more efficient. Want to know more about our independent, accredited audits and certifications? Whether you are certifying for the first time or have been around for years, we help!”

    105
    +
    Years of experience
    275
    +
    offices and labs worldwide in 80 countries
    6000
    +
    Proud colleagues
    Control Union – Agri, Horticulture & Organic

    AFK application or no-obligation consultation?

    We are ready to assist. Contact us using the form below or call us on +31 38 42 60 107

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    Independent tailor-made services

    What makes you unique, we make demonstrable

    Does your organisation have specific certification or audit requirements that are not covered by the certification programmes? For example developing a new standard? Control Union also provides independent customised services.

    Control Union - supply chain