The Role of Occupational Health
Occupational Health (OH) plays a key role in supporting employees throughout their working lives, from pre-employment fitness assessments through to ongoing support that enables people to remain in work safely and productively. In other words, it helps employers look after people while also protecting the business.
OH acts in an advisory capacity, so employers receive clear, professional guidance on employee health, fitness for work and reasonable adjustments. It is not there to “manage” employees. Instead, it safeguards health, supports legal compliance and reduces work-related harm.
Health surveillance and fitness for work
Health surveillance involves monitoring workers’ health in relation to workplace risks. The purpose is early detection of adverse health effects, but it also helps confirm that control measures are working and that the organisation can demonstrate compliance.
However, it is not a substitute for risk control.
Surveillance can include questionnaires, skin or respiratory checks, hearing tests, lung function testing or role-specific medicals.
When surveillance is required
The frequency and type of surveillance depend on the level and nature of exposure. For example, some checks are completed on commencement of a role, while others are repeated at regular intervals. In some cases, exit assessments may also be appropriate, particularly where long-term exposure is a concern.
Common areas where health surveillance or fitness assessments may be required include display screen equipment use, exposure to hazardous substances, skin and respiratory sensitisers, noise, vibration, night work, vocational driving and work in confined spaces or lone-working roles. So, the programme should reflect real workplace risks, not assumptions.
Vaccinations and biological risks
Where risk assessments identify exposure to biological agents, vaccination may form part of the control measures. That said, occupational immunisation is only required where employees can reasonably be expected to be exposed, and it should never replace effective risk controls. Instead, it should sit alongside them as part of a sensible prevention plan.
Vaccination programmes should be managed by occupational health professionals, following recognised guidance and role-specific risk assessments. As a result, employers get a consistent approach, and workers receive appropriate protection.
HSE-approved and statutory medicals
Certain roles require statutory medicals, including asbestos and lead work. This not only protects employees, but also helps organisations demonstrate compliance when it matters most.
Supporting employers through risk assessment
Health risks should be reviewed as part of wider workplace risk assessments. Additionally, as work processes, equipment and technology change, the need for health surveillance may reduce or evolve. Therefore, programmes should not be “set and forget”.
Global OHS supports organisations in reviewing health risks and defining appropriate surveillance programmes. Ultimately, the goal is straightforward: keep occupational health provision proportionate, compliant and effective, while supporting people to stay well and stay in work.
UK Support and Further Reading
For additional guidance on workplace health and wellbeing, the following UK organisations provide trusted information:
