Malta International Airport Becomes the First Airport Within the EU with Certified Employee Wellness Standards
Malta International Airport has become the first airport within the European Union to attain ISO 45003 certification in recognition of the company’s efforts to safeguard the overall wellbeing, be it physical or psychosocial, of its workforce.
ISO 45003 provides guidelines for managing psychological hazards and risks at the workplace, making Malta International Airport a pioneer among its peers. The company has separately also achieved ISO 45001 certification. Similarly, this certification sets robust standards for maintaining health and safety, focusing not only on the physical safety of workers but also ensuring they are provided with mental and emotional support, particularly during the execution of major projects.
“Both ISO certifications stand as a testament to Malta International Airport’s unwavering commitment to health and safety excellence. Beyond simply reflecting the high standards that our company upholds, this achievement underscores our commitment to cultivating a workplace where employees and stakeholders feel valued and supported, which ultimately contributes to a safer, more seamless journey for every passenger,” said Lead Health and Safety Officer Daniela Borg.
“Managing health and safety aspects is not an easy task, more so in an organisation such as the Malta International Airport, a 24/7 organisation, with a variety of activities, continued expansion and growth. The certification process was seamless, with the most striking and impressive aspect being the commitment shown by the management towards the wellbeing of the employees and the sense of a strong health and safety culture embedded in all the processes,” said Peter Cain, Country Manager of Bureau Veritas Malta, while congratulating the team on achieving this milestone.
With several major infrastructural projects underway across airport grounds, the company has implemented structured health and safety measures that are aligned with these internationally recognised best practices, including carrying out risk assessments, enforcing strictly reviewed protocols and ensuring that staff receive adequate and continuous training.
Internally, Malta International Airport has also been proactive in creating a supportive work culture that promotes work-life balance. In anticipation of its workforce nearing the 500-employee mark, the company has introduced flexible work policies, alongside access to counselling services and tailored wellness programmes, to ensure that all team members are equipped with the resources they need to maintain their wellbeing.
Alexia Aquilina, Head of People and Culture, explained that at Malta International Airport, safety, wellbeing, and professional growth are not only prioritised but intrinsically linked, forming the foundation of a positive work environment that attracts and retains top talent.
“When employees feel that their wellbeing is valued, they are more engaged, motivated, and committed to their work,” Aquilina said. “By investing in employee wellbeing, our airport not only ensures compliance with safety standards but also creates an inclusive, thriving, and resilient work environment that benefits our employees, our company and our guests alike.”
Published on: 07.03.25