At Železiarne Podbrezová, we believe that high-quality production goes hand in hand with caring for the health of our people. Prevention and a healthy working environment have long been among our core values, which is why we actively participate in the Cancer Prevention at Work (CPW) project.
We bring back recognition and inspiration from Bucharest
At the international CPW project conference in Bucharest, Romania, held in May 2025, we received recognition for achieving the best results among Slovak participants.
Our company was represented by Miriam Kočtúchová Blažinová, project coordinator from the Department of Safety and Environment, and Monika Gondová, project manager and head of the Project Management Department. Their joint presentation of our results was met with positive feedback from both the organizers and partner countries.
Why is the CPW project organized?
The CPW project focuses on reducing the incidence of cancer through prevention, specifically:
• Screening for hepatitis C (HCV),
• Testing for the Helicobacter pylori (HP) bacterium,
• Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV).
“The goal is not just to collect data, but truly to protect people’s health. That’s why we’re doing everything we can to involve as many of our employees as possible,” said Miriam Kočtúchová Blažinová.
In addition to conducting the examinations themselves, the conferences and working meetings serve as platforms for sharing results, exchanging experiences, and seeking common solutions.
Results that speak for themselves
As of April 30, 2025, within Železiarne Podbrezová:
• 416 employees were officially invited for testing,
• 413 of them participated, only three declined,
• 48 individuals (employees or their family members) chose to get vaccinated against HPV – all three doses were fully funded by the project.
To make the process as accessible as possible, three testing sites were set up directly on company premises.
Thorough preparation, successful presentation
Preparation for the conference lasted several months. The ŽP team created brochures, banners, and articles for the company magazine Podbrezovan. The medical examinations officially began in September 2024.
“Presenting in English was a challenge, but also a valuable learning experience. The meeting was very well organized, and we met experts from universities and the scientific community,” said Monika Gondová.
What’s next?
The project is not ending – on the contrary. Employees who have not yet joined still have the opportunity to undergo testing or vaccination. Appointments are scheduled monthly in advance, and can be arranged by contacting the coordinators at internal extensions 2762 or 2763.
We also collaborate with regional partners and healthcare facilities to ensure high-quality sample analysis and follow-up care for all participants.
Together for a healthier workplace
We are proud that Železiarne Podbrezová can be a leader not only in production quality but also in taking care of our people.
The CPW project is an important step towards a safer and healthier work environment – and we will continue in this effort.
We thank every colleague who took part in the project – your commitment to prevention is a motivation for all of us.
