For any business, the health and well-being of employees are crucial to maintaining productivity, reducing absenteeism, and ensuring long-term success. This is where occupational health checks come into play. These health assessments provide an organised approach to evaluating the physical and mental health of employees, ensuring that they’re fit for their roles and equipped to work in a safe and healthy environment.
Occupational health checks aren’t just for large corporations or high-risk industries; they’re essential across all sectors, giving both employees and employers the assurance that health and safety standards are met. These checks can also help employers fulfil their legal obligations, reduce workplace accidents, and create a culture of care and safety within their organisations.
In this article, we’ll explore what an occupational health check entails, its importance, the different types of assessments, and the benefits it offers to both employees and employers.
What is an occupational health check?
An occupational health check is a comprehensive evaluation designed to assess whether an employee is physically and mentally fit to perform their job safely. The primary goal of these checks is to identify any potential health issues that could prevent an individual from carrying out their job effectively or safely, especially if they have pre-existing conditions that might be exacerbated by their work. Based on the findings, occupational health professionals can provide advice on reasonable adjustments or accommodations to support the individual in their role.
These assessments are tailored to the specific requirements of the employee’s role, considering both physical demands and mental health factors.
The role of occupational health checks extends beyond the individual employee. They’re also crucial for the employer, ensuring compliance with workplace safety regulations and reducing the risk of accidents and illnesses in the workplace.
Why do businesses need occupational health checks?
Legal compliance
In the UK, employers are legally obligated to ensure the health and safety of their employees. This duty is outlined in the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which requires businesses to take all necessary measures to prevent harm to their workforce.
For high-risk industries such as construction, healthcare, and transportation, regular health checks may be mandatory to comply with industry-specific regulations. Companies that don’t comply with these legal requirements could receive costly penalties, reputational damage, or even legal action from employees or regulatory bodies.
Preventing work-related illnesses
Work-related illnesses can take a toll on both employees and employers. In sectors where employees are exposed to hazardous materials, repetitive physical tasks, or high levels of stress, the risk of developing occupational illnesses is significantly increased. Health Surveillance, is a as a preventative measure, identifying early signs of illness before they become debilitating. It is a scheme of repeated health checks which are used to identify ill health caused by work. Health and safety law requires health surveillance when workers remain exposed to health risks even after controls are put in place. This is because control measures may not always be reliable, despite appropriate checking, training and maintenance. Health risks which require health surveillance include noise, vibration and substances hazardous to health.
For example, workers in the construction industry may be at risk of hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud machinery, while healthcare workers may experience stress-related illnesses due to the emotional and physical demands of their job. By regularly assessing employees’ health, companies can prevent these conditions from escalating and make sure that necessary steps are taken to protect their workforce.
Different types of occupational health assessments
There are several types of occupational health assessments, each tailored to specific stages of employment and the unique demands of the role. These include:
- Pre-placement health check
A pre-placement health check is typically conducted before an individual begins their role to make sure they’re physically and mentally fit for the job. This assessment helps employers determine whether the candidate can perform the required tasks without putting themselves or others at risk.
These health checks can vary depending on the role. For instance, someone applying for a desk-based job may undergo a general health assessment, while those seeking physically demanding positions might require a fitness test. In industries like aviation or healthcare, more thorough checks may be required to make sure the candidate meets the necessary health and safety standards.
By conducting pre-placement health checks, employers can minimise the risk of future health problems or accidents, ensuring that new hires are fit for the job from the outset.
- Routine health monitoring
For employees in high-risk or physically demanding roles, routine health monitoring is absolutely essential. These periodic assessments help track an employee’s health over time, ensuring that any emerging health issues are identified early.
Routine health checks might include regular vision tests for drivers, lung function tests for workers exposed to dust or chemicals, or ergonomic assessments for office workers. This ongoing monitoring helps to prevent work-related illnesses, ensuring that employees remain healthy and capable of fulfilling their duties.
- Return-to-work health check
After an illness or injury, employees may be required to undergo a return-to-work health check. This assessment ensures that they’re fully recovered and fit to resume their duties without risking further injury or health complications.
The return-to-work health check is particularly important in roles where physical exertion or exposure to hazards is involved. For example, if an employee in a physically demanding role returns to work too soon after an injury, they may risk re-injury or prolonging their recovery. A return-to-work health check can help employers make informed decisions about adjusting duties or allowing a phased return to work.
Specific health checks for certain roles
Some roles come with specific health risks that require tailored assessments. These role-specific health checks help make sure that employees in high-risk positions are regularly monitored and protected from occupational hazards.
For instance, construction workers who are regularly exposed to loud noises might undergo hearing tests, while those handling hazardous chemicals could require regular respiratory function tests. Similarly, employees who operate heavy machinery or work at heights might need regular fitness assessments to make sure they’re physically capable of performing their duties safely.
By carrying out these specific health checks, employers are able to make sure that workers in high-risk roles are adequately protected and that any health issues can be addressed as soon as possible.
What happens during an occupational health check?
Occupational health checks typically involve a combination of general and job-specific assessments. The process can vary depending on the industry and the specific role, but most checks will include the following steps:
Initial health questionnaire
The process often begins with an initial health questionnaire. This questionnaire helps to gather essential information about the employee’s medical history, lifestyle habits, and any pre-existing health conditions. The information provided allows the occupational health professional to identify any potential risk factors or health concerns that may need further attention.
This questionnaire might ask about any past surgeries, chronic illnesses, medications, or allergies that could affect the employee’s ability to perform their job safely. For physically demanding roles, the questionnaire might also cover lifestyle factors such as smoking, exercise, and diet.
Physical examination
After the questionnaire, a physical examination may be conducted, depending on the nature of the role. This examination could include measuring vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, weight, and general fitness levels. For physically demanding roles, the examination might involve tests to assess strength, flexibility, or endurance.
For less physically intensive roles, the examination might focus on identifying any ergonomic issues, such as poor posture or workstation setup, that could lead to long-term musculoskeletal problems. For example, office workers might undergo assessments to make sure their desk setup is conducive to good health and doesn’t cause strain.
Specialised tests
In certain cases, specialised tests may be required, particularly in high-risk industries. These tests are designed to assess specific health risks related to the employee’s role. Common specialised tests include:
- Vision tests for roles that require keen eyesight, such as drivers or machine operators.
- Hearing tests for workers exposed to loud noises, such as construction workers or factory staff.
- Lung function tests for employees exposed to dust, chemicals, or fumes.
- Drug and alcohol screenings for safety-critical roles where impairment could lead to accidents.
- Ergonomic assessments for desk-based employees to prevent musculoskeletal problems.
Benefits of occupational health checks for employers
Improved productivity
Healthy employees are naturally more productive. When employees are physically and mentally fit, they’re better able to focus on their tasks and maintain high levels of performance. Occupational health checks help employers identify and address health issues early, ensuring that employees remain healthy, motivated, and productive.
By preventing work-related illnesses and accidents, businesses can reduce downtime and maintain consistent productivity levels. Employees who feel that their health and well-being are valued by their employer are much more likely to be engaged and committed to their work.
Reduced absenteeism
Absenteeism due to illness or injury can significantly impact business operations. Regular occupational health checks can reduce absenteeism by identifying potential health issues before they become serious. Early intervention allows employees to receive treatment sooner, reducing the likelihood of long-term sick leave.
For example, if a routine health check identifies the early signs of a musculoskeletal disorder in an employee, ergonomic adjustments or physiotherapy can be arranged to prevent the issue from worsening, reducing the need for extended time off work.
Enhanced employee retention
When employees feel that their health and well-being are a priority, they’re more likely to stay loyal to the organisation. Occupational health checks show a company’s commitment to its staff, which helps build a positive workplace culture and strengthens employee morale.
Employees who are confident that their employer is invested in their long-term health are less likely to leave the company, resulting in higher retention rates. This not only reduces the costs associated with recruitment and training but also helps to maintain team stability and productivity.
Lower insurance costs
Maintaining a healthy workforce can lead to lower insurance premiums. When businesses actively engage in occupational health monitoring, they can reduce the number of workers’ compensation claims and long-term sickness absences. Insurance providers often take into account a company’s commitment to health and safety practices when calculating premiums.
By keeping employees healthy and preventing costly health-related claims, employers can save significant amounts of money on health insurance and workers’ compensation schemes, further justifying the investment in regular health checks.
Benefits of occupational health checks for employees
Early detection of health issues
One of the key benefits of occupational health checks for employees is the early detection of potential health issues. These assessments can identify risks such as high blood pressure, musculoskeletal issues, or stress-related conditions before they become serious. Early detection allows employees to seek treatment promptly, helping them to stay fit and continue working safely.
For example, regular screenings can catch conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome in office workers, or early-stage hearing loss in construction workers, preventing further deterioration through medical intervention or adjustments to the working environment.
Peace of mind
Occupational health checks offer employees peace of mind by assuring them that their health is being monitored and that their employer is committed to their well-being. Knowing that any potential health risks will be detected early and addressed promptly helps employees feel more secure and supported in their role.
For those in physically demanding jobs, these checks can alleviate concerns about their ability to continue performing at the required level without risking injury. Similarly, workers in high-stress environments may find reassurance in knowing that mental health support and monitoring are available.
Access to health resources
Many employees may not otherwise have access to certain health resources, but occupational health services can open doors to additional support. Employees who undergo health checks may be referred for further medical evaluations or receive advice on lifestyle changes, ergonomic adjustments, or mental health support.
For instance, if a health check reveals high cholesterol or signs of diabetes, employees may be directed to specialists who can help them manage their condition. In addition to this, mental health services and counselling could be made available to employees experiencing work-related stress, helping them maintain a healthy balance between their personal and professional lives.
Selecting the right occupational health provider
Choosing the right occupational health service provider is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness and thoroughness of the health checks. The provider must have the right expertise, qualifications, and experience to conduct assessments that meet industry standards and the specific needs of your workforce.
What to look for in a provider
When selecting an occupational health provider, consider the following key factors:
- Qualifications and experience: make sure the provider employs qualified health professionals, such as occupational health nurses, doctors, and physiotherapists, with experience relevant to your industry.
- Range of services: Look for a provider that offers a wide range of services, from pre-employment checks to routine health monitoring, mental health assessments, and ergonomic evaluations. This ensures that all aspects of employee health are covered.
- On-site services: Some providers offer on-site health checks, which can be more convenient and cost-effective for your organisation. On-site services reduce disruption to the workday and allow for quicker assessments.
- Follow-up support: A good occupational health provider will offer follow-up care, ensuring that any issues detected during a health check are managed appropriately. This might include referrals to specialists or ongoing monitoring to track health improvements over time.
At MCL Medics, we have over 20 years’ experience providing our clients with a trusted health partner, with proven results in maintaining the highest degree of physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Our occupational health services are offered through clinics across the UK, with fully accredited, qualified and professional support.
Our services can help you to:
- Comply with health and safety legislation
- Support and enhance the recruitment process
- Support absence management
- Reduce absenteeism
- Improve staff retention
- Develop a strategic approach to OH in your business.
The importance of occupational health checks
Occupational health checks are an essential investment for any business that values the well-being of its employees and wants to create a safe, healthy, and productive work environment. These assessments not only help employers meet their legal obligations and reduce the risk of workplace accidents, but they also demonstrate a commitment to employee care and safety.
For employees, regular health checks provide the opportunity to address potential health issues early, gain peace of mind, and access additional health resources when needed. By prioritising occupational health, businesses can enhance productivity, reduce absenteeism, and build a loyal, engaged workforce that feels valued and supported.
In the long run, investing in occupational health checks creates a healthier, safer, and more sustainable workplace for all.
If you’d like to find out more about our occupational health services, get in touch with our team today.s to a wide range of services, engaging entire workforces with a 98% staff engagement rate. Our bespoke EAP app comes as standard, providing tailored services at scale, ensuring every employee has the support they need, when they need it. If you’d like to speak to us about our EAP services or anything else, get in touch today.
Comments are closed.