In 2022, McKinstry Group transferred their certification services to System Certification Services Ltd (SCS), choosing SCS to certify and audit their integrated management system for ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 14001 (Environmental), and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety). Since then, McKinstry Group has continued to experience improved structure, consistency, and measurable performance across their operations.
About McKinstry Group
McKinstry Group is one of Northern Ireland’s leading waste management and skip hire specialists, serving domestic, commercial, and industrial customers. With decades of experience, the company provides skip hire, recycling, waste processing, and environmental services across multiple sites.
Their focus on responsible waste management, customer service, and environmental performance has positioned them as a trusted provider in a highly regulated industry where safety and compliance are essential.
About SCS – System Certification Services Ltd
SCS is a UKAS-accredited Certification Body delivering ISO management systems certification across the UK, Ireland, and beyond. Known for their practical, transparent, and customer-focused approach, SCS provides certification services that support organisations in improving performance, reducing risk, and meeting regulatory and tender requirements.
Clients consistently highlight the organisation’s thorough audits, supportive auditors, and strong communication before, during, and after audit activity.
With multiple operational sites, McKinstry Group wanted a consistent, structured, and benchmarked approach across the organisation. Certification to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 provided:
A structured way to help long-standing employees adopt new habits such as daily checks, walk-arounds, and recorded evidence
In an industry where safety, compliance, and environmental responsibility are paramount, ISO certification helped bring structure, clarity, and continual improvement to daily operations.
McKinstry Group moved to SCS in 2022, influenced by a strong recommendation and previous positive experiences with SCS.
“We were recommended SCS. This is now the start of our fourth year with SCS.”
— Patricia Moorehead, Health & Safety Officer at McKinstry Group
SCS’s reputation for being thorough, helpful, and approachable was a deciding factor.
McKinstry Group describe the audit process with SCS as professional, detailed, and highly valuable.
Their most recent recertification audit spanned seven days and involved multiple SCS auditors. Patricia highlighted:
“Some people find the auditing process daunting, but I actually find it quite helpful. The auditors make it very enjoyable… It’s nice to spend time with them rather than worrying.”
McKinstry Group emphasised how strong communication from SCS helped ensure smooth audits:
“We always get communication of what is required… If there’s any changes, SCS are always open to working with us.”
Since achieving certification with SCS, the company has seen clear improvements:
1. Better performance management
Recording and measuring performance across departments has allowed them to identify improvements more easily.
2. Stronger employee alignment
The standards give teams a clear benchmark and shared understanding of expectations.
3. Cultural improvement
Long-standing employees now fully understand the importance of checks, audits, and documented procedures.
4. Continual improvement mindset
External audits highlight where improvements can be made and reinforce good practices.
Would McKinstry Group Recommend SCS?
Absolutely.
“Yes, 100% I would recommend SCS.”
— Patricia Moorehead
The partnership between McKinstry Group and SCS demonstrates how effective, supportive, and thorough certification can help organisations strengthen compliance, operational performance, and safety culture.
By working with SCS, McKinstry Group benefits from transparent communication, a positive audit experience, and a certification partner committed to their ongoing improvement.
