Preventing workplace accidents and occupational diseases is a constant concern and entails identifying the activities posing the most significant risk. The Companies have safe infrastructures and equipment, adopt procedures that reinforce safety, and promote campaigns for preventing risk-related behaviour.
The Covid-19 pandemic led the Group to reinforce its investment in personal protective equipment in 2021 to a value above 6.5 million euros. Audits were performed, and communication campaigns were organised to raise employee awareness and ensure compliance with safety standards. Free Covid-19 testing was also made available, which implied an investment of 962 thousand euros.
All hazards are identified and assessed by the occupational health and safety (OHS) teams by measuring chemical, physical and biological agents. Every day, our employees deal with unloading, storing and processing products, activities that may be a risk to their health and safety.
In the case of incidents/accidents, an analysis is performed and an investigation is made to ascertain the facts, circumstances and possible causes. Subsequently, correction measures are identified.
To prevent, minimise and mitigate risks, the Group conducts audits, carries out emergency drills and regular medical examinations, and promotes awareness of hazards and safe practices through employee empowerment and engagement.
Implementing certified health and safety systems enables the continuous improvement of procedures. At Biedronka, occupational health and safety (OHS) is based on a system certified according to ISO 45001:2018 and valid for all locations, including stores, distribution centres, the soup factory and offices. In 2021, Pingo Doce and Recheio also initiated the process for certification to that standard.
The details of the occupational health and safety indicators were confirmed by an external and independent entity for the Group’s 2021 Annual Report.