Achieving certification in Estonia marks another important step toward our goal of having all Ensto manufacturing sites ISO 45001 certified. This milestone reflects Ensto’s dedication to protecting the well-being of our people and fostering a safe, proactive, and responsible working environment across all our operations
A Strong Foundation
Over the years, Ensto Estonia has built its Health and Safety Management System on a solid foundation, drawing from our ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified systems and a strong lean culture. These frameworks have fostered a safety-first mindset, enabled continuous improvement, and promoted a sense of shared responsibility across the organization.
The ISO 45001 certification project, launched in spring 2024, was based on the system already implemented in Ensto Finland. By leveraging lessons learned and proven practices across Ensto, the team in Estonia began with a thorough current-state analysis, followed by targeted internal audits that helped focus improvements where they were needed most. Many system elements were already in place – supported by local legislation, global health and safety standards, and ongoing development efforts – which provided a strong starting point for certification.
People Power: Engagement at the Core
According to Andres Laur, Safety Specialist at Ensto Estonia:
“Our employees' active participation has been essential throughout the journey. From health and safety observations and risk mapping to training and event participation, employee commitment has brought the system to life. A high volume of reported observations demonstrates this ownership culture – and it's paying off. Ensto Estonia has seen a significant drop in workplace accidents and a notable reduction in sick leave."
Audit Highlights and Results
During certification audit, several key strengths were recognized:
- Strong and structured leadership with a systematic, goal-driven approach
- Long-term commitment to occupational safety with clear targets and action plans
- Clean and organized facilities that support safe, efficient operations
- Effective risk management across processes and interfaces
- Practical, safety-conscious work instructions tailored to each task
However, one non-conformity was identified during the factory tour in relation to not using PPE as instructed. Corrective actions were initiated the following week to reinforce consistent PPE use and ensure that safety instructions are up to date, well understood, and properly followed.
Looking Ahead
We will continue to develop our Health and Safety Management System by extending certification processes to other sites and aligning practices globally. At the same time, we are committed to building dedicated safety and well-being programs that respond to the specific needs of our teams and locations – ensuring that safety is both globally aligned and locally relevant.
To support this, we are renewing our policies, working principles, and training programs, and investing in shared digital tools to enhance transparency, data-driven action, and collaboration. Our goal is not only to manage risks but to foster a culture where everyone feels safe, heard, and empowered to contribute.
Our people remain at the center of this journey. By encouraging participation, open dialogue, and shared responsibility, we continue shaping a workplace where safety, respect, and well-being are embedded in everything we do.