Gender equality is not a newly emerged topic but rather the outcome of a long historical, cultural, and social journey spanning centuries of struggles and achievements.
As early as the 19th century, with the feminist movements in Europe and the United States, women began to demand fundamental rights such as universal suffrage, access to education, and the opportunity to work under fair conditions. These battles paved the way for the progressive recognition of equality as a principle of justice and social progress.
At the international level, a crucial moment was the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), which established the principle of equality regardless of gender. Subsequently, the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW, 1979) reinforced the global commitment to eliminating gender disparities.
In Europe, the principle of gender equality has become a cornerstone of the Union’s development. EU Treaties and Directives have strengthened the right to equal treatment and equal opportunities in the workplace and in society at large.
In Italy, the constitutional values enshrined in Article 3 (equality of all citizens) and Article 37 (protection of women in the workplace) laid the foundation for increasingly attentive laws and policies. In the 2000s, the Equal Opportunities Code (2006) provided a more structured regulatory framework.
More recently, the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) marked a turning point by introducing concrete tools such as the UNI/PdR 125:2022 Certification, aimed at recognizing companies that proactively work to reduce the gender gap.
It is within this context—rooted in history, rights, and social innovation—that Bericah’s journey toward Gender Equality Certification takes place.
Why Gender Equality Certification Matters More Than Ever
Today, gender equality is not only a matter of justice—it is a genuine strategic lever for businesses. Modern companies are no longer evaluated solely on product quality or financial results, but also on their ability to create fair, inclusive workplaces that value talent.
The Gender Equality Certification, promoted by the PNRR and supported by Italian institutions, was created to encourage companies to implement concrete, measurable, and transparent policies, going beyond mere declarations of intent.
For an established company like Bericah—a leader in the medical devices and PPE sector—this certification represents the natural evolution of a long-standing commitment to quality, social responsibility, and innovation.
What Is Gender Equality Certification?
The Gender Equality Certification is governed by the UNI/PdR 125:2022 standard, which defines a set of parameters and indicators to measure a company’s commitment to closing the gender gap.
The six key assessment areas are:
- Opportunities for women’s growth and inclusion in the company
- Equal pay for equal roles and responsibilities
- Protection of maternity and paternity
- Work-life balance policies
- Equal access to training and career advancement
- Prevention of discrimination and inclusive welfare policies
Benefits of the Certification
The advantages of obtaining Gender Equality Certification include:
- Enhanced corporate reputation
- Access to preferential treatment in public tenders and economic incentives
- A more inclusive and merit-based work environment
- Greater transparency for clients, partners, and stakeholders
- Contribution to a more equitable society
Bericah Earns Gender Equality Certification
In this context, Bericah S.p.A., a market leader in Medical Devices and Personal Protective Equipment, has officially obtained the Gender Equality Certification.
Founded in 1979, Bericah has always pursued a mission focused on safety, quality, and care for people. This certification confirms that such commitment extends beyond products to include the people who contribute every day to the company’s growth.
A Strategic and Shared Path
This achievement was made possible thanks to a cross-functional effort that involved all company departments. Bericah chose to implement structured policies and processes to ensure equal opportunities, fair compensation, and tools for work-life balance.
For Bericah, this certification is not a final goal but a new starting point, reinforcing the company’s commitment to a future where talent and professionalism can thrive without gender barriers.
Positive Impacts on the Company and the Market
Gender Equality Certification carries value that goes beyond internal operations. It sends a strong signal to clients, partners, and institutions.
Benefits for Employees
- Fair and equal opportunities for growth and training
- Guaranteed pay equity
- Improved work-life balance thanks to flexible policies
- Concrete support for maternity and paternity
- An inclusive and stimulating work environment
Benefits for Partners and Clients
- Collaboration with a company certified to internationally recognized standards
- Assurance of ethics, transparency, and social responsibility
- Strengthened reputation across the supply chain
Bericah’s Certifications: A Quality Ecosystem
The new Gender Equality Certification adds to a robust portfolio of recognitions that underscore Bericah’s commitment to quality, safety, sustainability, and workplace ethics.
Bericah has already obtained the following certifications:
- UNI EN ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management Systems
- UNI ISO 45001:2018 – Occupational Health and Safety
- UNI CEI EN ISO 13485:2021 – Medical Devices
- UNI EN ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental Management
- SA8000:2014 – Social Accountability and Labor Ethics
- AEO Certification – Authorized Economic Operator for Customs Operations
An Integrated Vision
This ecosystem of certifications illustrates Bericah’s aspiration to not only be a market leader but a 360-degree responsible company, integrating innovation, sustainability, quality, and social values.
Bericah: A Model for the Future
Achieving the Gender Equality Certification marks a new milestone that confirms Bericah’s identity as a company deeply committed to people’s well-being and social progress.
In a competitive industry like medical and industrial supplies, the ability to combine product excellence, innovation, and social responsibility is what makes the real difference.
With this recognition, Bericah reaffirms its leadership and its intent to be not only a market reference point but also a business model for the future.