What are the biggest challenges for workplace safety?
“Research shows that up to 96 % of accidents happen due to unsafe behaviour.¹ We need people to consider safe behaviour at all times – whether handling chemicals or walking down a staircase. We have to deal with a lot of complexity because workplace safety involves a huge variety of constantly evolving topics and each employee's job is unique. We must build awareness so that employees can predict what can go wrong. That's why it is essential to provide training and explain the reasons for our safety measures and guidelines. As work processes are subject to continuous improvement, safety must always be considered and adapted accordingly.”

What is Grünenthal's plan for overcoming that complexity and keeping people safe?
“Our holistic VISION ZERO goal strives for zero accidents in the workplace and zero Lost Working Days due to accidents. All our manufacturing sites are certified in line with the ISO 45001 standard for occupational health and safety, for example. They have also implemented our Policy on Occupational Safety, Health and Environmental Protection (EHS Policy), which applies to all employees and our suppliers. In addition, our manufacturing sites conduct regular Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) audits and assessments.”

Where does the company stand right now on its journey to VISION ZERO?
“I feel deeply proud of our progress. We have reduced Lost Working Day accidents by 62 percent in the last three years to reach single-digit levels at our manufacturing sites for the first time ever. Most importantly, there have been no fatal accidents or accidents with long-term consequences involving Grünenthal employees or contractors since we started reporting this data in detail in 2021. These important forward steps were made possible by caring for ourselves and our colleagues.”

How exactly is Grünenthal bringing VISION ZERO to life?
“Strengthening awareness and implementing global standards are the key. Employees observe the behaviour of their colleagues and provide feedback, for example. This corrects potential problems before accidents occur. We also analyse every accident and share information with all sites worldwide, so everybody learns from what has happened. Employees also get extensive training for their specific job and location. We offer programmes to support physical, psychological and social health. And company doctors, nurses and first aiders provide medical care, health examinations and other services at many sites. In this way, we go beyond legal requirements to keep our people safe. It is a shared responsibility, and every employee needs to play a role in bringing VISION ZERO to life.”

Find out more about our safety measures in our Grünenthal Report and our Responsibility Report.