A safe and healthy work environment is important for any organization. Not only because it contributes to the well-being of employees, but also because it leads to better performance and less absenteeism. ISO 45001 is the international standard that helps companies to structurally improve occupational safety.
Milgro recently obtained this certification. But what exactly does it entail? And why did Milgro choose this certification? You can read it in this blog.
What is ISO 45001?
This standard was developed to support organizations in structurally improving occupational safety and health. ISO 45001 was developed to replace OHSAS 18001 and aligns better with other ISO certifications, such as ISO 9001 (quality) and ISO 14001 (environment). Because these standards share the same structure, focusing on risk management, continuous improvement and management commitment, organizations can more easily combine them into a single system for quality, environment and occupational safety.
A concrete example of this is Milgro's approach to a safe and healthy work environment. By January 2025, all workplaces have been made arboproof and several office chairs have been replaced according to the NEN 1812 standard. In addition, facility is currently investigating options for noise barriers between desks and air purifiers, in connection with humidity on the shop floor. These measures are in line with the objectives of ISO 45001: the structural improvement of working conditions, with a focus on the health and well-being of employees.
Why is ISO 45001 important?
ISO 45001 helps organizations deal proactively with occupational safety. Instead of intervening after an incident, such as a fall from a ladder or exposure to hazardous substances, the standard allows companies to identify risks in advance and take preventive measures. This reduces the risk of accidents and work-related health problems and contributes to a safer work environment.
This has an effect not only directly, but also indirectly. For example, by investing in good office chairs and adjustable desks, physical complaints are prevented. This helps to reduce sick leave and long-term absenteeism.
In addition, ISO 45001 helps organizations comply with laws and regulations, such as the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and regularly evaluate and improve their safety policy. In this way, occupational safety does not remain a one-time effort, but is a permanent part of business operations.
SCC and ISO 45001: What's the difference?
Many companies are familiar with SCC (Safety, Health and Environmental Checklist Contractors). This certificate focuses on operational safety and is intended for companies and employees in sectors such as construction and engineering. SCC is mainly about practical safety measures and rules of conduct on the shop floor.
ISO 45001 goes further than SCC. Whereas SCC focuses on safety on the shop floor, ISO 45001 also covers health and well-being throughout the organization, including management.
Why does Milgro choose ISO 45001?
Milgro chooses ISO 45001 because this standard structurally anchors health and safety in the organization. The certification not only ensures a safe working environment, but also integrates safety and health into our policy, risk management and decision making.
Milgro passed the external audit at the end of March 2025 and meets the requirements of the standard. Read more about our certification in the news release.
Want to learn more?
Want to know how our certifications contribute to a safe, reliable, and future-proof partnership?
Visit our certifications page to learn more about our approach and what it can mean for your organization.
