The UNI PdR 125:2022 Gender Equality Certification is the reference practice that defines the requirements for a gender equality management system. Its goal is to guide organizations towards an inclusive and sustainable model.
The certification represents a key technical and managerial tool for integrating gender equality into corporate strategies, in line with ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) principles.
Structure and Requirements of UNI PdR 125
The UNI PdR 125 company certification introduces a systemic approach based on the Deming cycle (Plan-Do-Check-Act). The practice defines a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) across six fundamental areas:
- Culture and strategy – corporate policies, internal communication, top management commitment.
- Governance – definition of responsibilities, roles, and gender inclusion in decision-making processes.
- HR processes – recruitment criteria, onboarding, training, and employee development.
- Growth and inclusion opportunities – gender balance in career paths and leadership roles.
- Pay equity – salary analysis, monitoring of gaps, and corrective actions.
- Parental support and work-life balance – flexibility measures, leave policies, corporate welfare.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) of UNI/PdR 125
Quantitative and qualitative indicators allow organizations to objectively measure their commitment. Among the main UNI PdR 125 gender equality KPIs are:
- Gender distribution by organizational level and function.
- Percentage of women in top positions (Board of Directors, executive, management).
- Average gender pay gap between men and women.
- Parental leave utilization rate by both genders.
- Number of training and awareness initiatives on diversity & inclusion.
- Flexible work policies (remote work, adaptable hours, post-maternity return programs).
- Presence of formal procedures for the prevention and management of discrimination.
Benefits for Certified Organizations
The UNI PdR 125 gender equality certification delivers tangible benefits:
- Incentives and rewards: additional scores in public tenders, contribution reductions, and facilitated access to funding programs.
- Alignment with ISO management systems: seamless integration with ISO 9001 (quality), ISO 45001 (occupational health and safety), and ISO 14001 (environmental management).
- ESG reputation and sustainability: enhanced credibility with stakeholders, investors, and clients.
- Talent attraction and retention: increased competitiveness in attracting and retaining qualified professionals.
Path to Certification
The process to obtain the UNI PdR 125 gender equality certification in Italy involves:
- Internal gap analysis against the PdR 125 requirements.
- Implementation of policies, procedures, and monitoring systems by the organization.
- Certification audit: assessment carried out by an accredited body and issuance of the certificate.
ACSQ Srl: Certification Body
ACSQ Srl operates as an independent body for conformity assessment and certification issuance according to UNI PdR 125. Our role is to verify, through impartial audits, the effective application of requirements and KPIs outlined in the practice, ensuring companies receive formal recognition compliant with required standards.
FAQ on UNI PdR 125 Certification
How long is the certification valid?
The validity is three years, with annual surveillance audits.
Who can apply?
Any organization, public or private, regardless of sector or size.
What is the average timeframe?
On average 3–6 months, depending on the complexity and maturity level of the corporate system.
What are the costs?
They vary based on company size and scope of application. The investment covers the initial audit phase and surveillance assessments.
Is it necessary to already have an ISO system?
It is not mandatory, but integration with standards such as ISO 9001 or ISO 45001 facilitates implementation and system management.
Why Certify for Gender Equality?
The UNI PdR 125 certification enables companies to demonstrate, with objective data, their commitment to equality and inclusion. In addition to strengthening reputation and ESG sustainability, it allows access to preferential treatment in public tenders, economic incentives, and competitive advantages in the labor market.
Contact ACSQ
Would you like to obtain UNI PdR 125 certification and showcase your company’s commitment to gender equality?
ACSQ Srl, as a certification body, is available to initiate the evaluation process.