What is a certified occupational health service?

And why it gives you peace of mind as an employer.

When it comes to absence, prevention, or sustainable employability, you probably think of an occupational health service. But what exactly is a certified occupational health service? And why does it matter whether you work with a certified or non-certified one?

Let us explain — clearly and practically, as you’ve come to expect from us.

First things first: What does an occupational health service actually do?

An occupational health provider helps employers and employees with everything related to health and employability in the workplace. Think absence management, prevention, medical advice, and reintegration support.

In the Netherlands, employers are legally required to have certain occupational health matters properly arranged. While you can technically set this up in-house, most employers opt for an external partner.

So, what is a certified occupational health service?

A certified occupational health service meets strict quality standards outlined in Dutch occupational health legislation (Arbowet). These providers are audited by independent bodies and may only perform certain tasks if they employ registered occupational physicians and certified core experts, such as occupational hygienists, organizational consultants, and safety professionals.

Or in simpler terms: a certified provider has its affairs in order — legally, medically, and operationally. Look for the SBCA quality mark — that’s how you know a provider is certified.

What’s the difference from a non-certified provider?

Some organizations offer occupational health support without being certified themselves. They often subcontract certified experts. This is allowed, but it comes with risks:

• Responsibility becomes fragmented
• Quality is less consistently monitored
• As a client, you don’t always know who’s accountable for what

In short: you risk non-compliance with the law or missing out on proper guidance for your employees — both of which are best avoided.

What are the benefits of working with a certified provider?

Plenty. Let’s break it down:

• You comply with a key requirement of Dutch occupational health law — clearly marked by the SBCA seal
• High-quality, integrated services — from absence management to prevention — all under one roof
• Fast, thorough interventions with a clear, action-oriented approach
• Clear responsibilities — you know exactly who’s handling what
• Better control over absence and employability, thanks to the right expertise at the right time

What about Capability?

Capability is a certified occupational health provider — but we do things a little differently. We combine human attention with practical action. That’s what we call Aandacht & Actie.

We work with task delegation: our occupational physicians focus on medical matters, while our specially trained absence managers guide employees through their recovery and reintegration. After all, not all absence is medically driven.

This way, we keep communication lines short, act quickly, and ensure everyone gets the right support at the right moment. Quality and privacy are safeguarded, waiting times stay low, and you always have a dedicated contact person who listens and takes action. Read more about our working method.

Capability is certified with:

• SBCA quality mark (Dutch certification)
• ISO 9001 – the international standard for quality management systems, ensuring consistent delivery that meets customer and legal requirements
• ISO 27001 – the international standard for information security, focused on protecting sensitive data through risk-based controls and continuous improvement

How do we compare to other providers in the Netherlands?

Among the many occupational health providers in the Netherlands, Capability is the one that truly stands beside you. We are diverse, multilingual, and socially engaged. No one-size-fits-all solutions—but guidance tailored to your organization, whether you’re an SME, staffing agency, or corporate player.

We’re also part of the Prevermo collective, giving us access to even more expertise, specialisms, and networks — so you always get the right support at the right time.

In short: How to choose the right occupational health provider

When selecting a provider, don’t just focus on cost. Ask yourself:

• Is the provider certified?
• How quickly can they act?
• How is personal guidance arranged?
• Do they focus on prevention and long-term employability?

And perhaps most important of all: does it feel like a partner who truly understands you? Take a look at our occupational health services.

Looking for a certified occupational health partner who listens and Acts?

Let’s talk. We listen. We think with you. And we take action where it’s needed.
Capability: the occupational health service of Attention & Action.