Three Questions for Michael Massar on Occupational Safety and Health at the Dillenburg Site
Safety and health are high priorities at Isabellenhütte. Michael Massar explains how occupational safety and health are organized at the Dillenburg site, what progress has already been made, and why prevention plays a central role in this effort.
Mr. Massar, how important is occupational safety and health at Isabellenhütte?
For me, one thing is certain: Anyone who comes to work in the morning should go home healthy in the evening. That’s why occupational safety and health isn’t just a requirement for us — it’s a shared responsibility. Our DIN ISO 45001-certified occupational safety management system provides us with a clear framework for this. We carefully identify where risks may arise, assess them, and implement appropriate measures — ranging from hazard assessments and clear work instructions to regular training sessions and emergency plans.
What progress have you made in the area of occupational safety—and what goals are you still working toward?
I am pleased that we are already seeing significant progress: The number of workplace accidents — which was already quite low — was nearly halved, dropping from 28 in 2024 to 17 in 2025*. We have also been able to significantly reduce the number of days lost due to work-related injuries and illnesses by approximately 66%, from 610 days to 202 days, during the same period. Behind these figures lie concrete internal measures and, above all, the dedication of our employees. Nevertheless, every accident is one too many. That is why we continue to thoroughly inspect machinery, work equipment, and processes, openly discuss risks, and provide regular training. Our goal remains clear: We will continue working to reduce the number of reportable workplace accidents.
* See Sustainability p. 58 (Sustainability Report)
What does health and safety mean beyond simply preventing accidents?
It’s important to me to take a holistic approach to health. It’s not just about preventing accidents, but also about recognizing physical and mental stress early on and preventing it whenever possible. With ISAfit, our internal sports and well-being program, we therefore offer our employees a wide range of support — for example, ergonomic workstations, exercise and breaks to relieve stress, company sports or bike leasing offers. It’s just as important to me that we also talk openly about mental health challenges and lower the barrier to accepting help. That’s why we want to support our employees not only with physical health but also with mental health. We will therefore continue to expand our workplace health management program step by step. Occupational safety and health can only work when we work together. That’s why we remain committed to open communication, employee participation, and engagement.
Here you'll find more information about our commitment to occupational health and safety: