ISO 45001 and the SDGs: Health, safety and sustainability in the Belgian workplace
Last updated:
26/6/2025
In an ever-changing work environment, ensuring employee health and safety is a priority for companies of all sizes. ISO 45001, the international standard for management systems for health and safety at work, provides organizations with a structural framework to minimize risks and develop a preventive safety culture. In Belgium, this standard is being increasingly applied not only to ensure compliance with legal requirements, but also as a strategic tool to promote sustainable growth and well-being in the workplace. Especially for SMEs, ISO 45001 can provide a practical solution to combine safety and efficiency without unnecessary complexity.
ISO 45001 helps organizations large and small identify and manage risks, which can dramatically reduce workplace accidents and work-related illnesses. For SMEs, this means not only a safer work environment, but also reduced costs due to absence and lost productivity.
Belgium has strict regulations and obligations around occupational safety. However, keeping up with all the legal requirements can be challenging for SMEs. ISO 45001 provides a streamlined and practical framework that allows smaller companies to easily comply with Belgian welfare legislation and European directives.
Employees in SMEs often have a closer relationship with their employer. By adopting ISO 45001, an SME can demonstrate that employee well-being is a priority, strengthening motivation, trust and loyalty within the team.
For SMEs looking to grow or partner with larger companies, ISO 45001 is a valuable certification. It demonstrates that safety and well-being are taken seriously, strengthening the company's reputation and creating new business opportunities.
ISO 45001 aligns seamlessly with several SDGs (sustainable development goals) established by the United Nations to achieve a more sustainable world.
Occupational health and safety is essential to SDG 3, which seeks to improve quality of life and well-being for all. ISO 45001 helps SMEs create a work environment where employees remain physically and mentally healthy.
A safe workplace contributes to productivity and sustainable economic growth. ISO 45001 supports SMEs in creating stable and healthy working conditions, contributing to SDG 8.
By minimizing risks and optimizing safety procedures, ISO 45001 helps SMEs use resources more efficiently and promote sustainable business practices, which perfectly aligns with SDG 12.
A safe and healthy work environment contributes to fair and inclusive workplaces where workers feel respected and protected, in line with SDG 16.
More and more Belgian SMEs are recognizing the benefits of ISO 45001 and implementing the standard as part of their sustainability strategy. The recently announced updates to the standard and its focus on preventive health measures make it an indispensable tool for any SME committed to a safe and healthy work environment.
Want to know more about how your SME can implement ISO 45001? Consult BeSWIC, the Belgian knowledge center for well-being at work, or visit the NBN website for training and certification programs.
By committing to ISO 45001, we are working together to create a safer, healthier and more sustainable future for everyone, including SMEs.
Improve occupational safety and health with ISO 45001. Find out how the standard manages risk and increases performance at your organisation .
