Definition
A specialist branch of medicine focused on the physical and mental wellbeing of employees in the workplace. Occupational health services provide health assessments, workplace adjustments advice, health surveillance, and support for employees returning to work after illness or injury.
UK Context
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers have a duty to assess and manage risks to employee health. Occupational health referrals can also support reasonable adjustments assessments under the Equality Act 2010.
Best Practices
- Refer employees to occupational health early in the absence management process rather than waiting until it becomes long-term
- Act on occupational health recommendations and document the reasons if any recommendations cannot be implemented
- Use occupational health proactively for health surveillance in roles with specific risks such as noise exposure or hazardous substances
Frequently Asked Questions
When should an employer refer an employee to occupational health?
Common triggers include repeated short-term absence, long-term absence beyond four weeks, return to work after serious illness or injury, concerns about fitness for the role, or when reasonable adjustments need to be assessed for a disability.
Is an employee obliged to attend an occupational health appointment?
There is no legal obligation, but the contract of employment may require it. If an employee refuses, the employer will need to make decisions based on the information available. Refusing without good reason may be treated as a conduct issue.