When Should My Employer Refer Me to Occupational Health?
Why might my employer refer me to occupational health?
An Occupational Health Assessment is a medical examination performed by an Occupational Health Physician (or Nurse Advisor) with an aim of addressing questions raised by the employer. When should my employer refer me to occupational health? Different circumstances that may warrant an occupational health management referral can include:
Employee still at work: You may be attending work regularly but could be showing signs of struggling. It may be the case that some timely changes are all that are required to keep you at work safely and productively.
Regular short-term absences: If you have regular short-term absences you could benefit from an assessment to ensure there are no underlying or more serious health issues.
Medium / Long term absences: If you have had substantial time away from work you could be referred for an assessment.
Return to Work: If you are ready to return to work following a period of absence it may be appropriate for you to be assessed so that you can be integrated back in a safe and structured manner.
Why being referred to occupational health shouldn't cause you to feel stressed
Being referred to occupational health does not mean that your employer is looking to fire you or deem you unfit to work.
Under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, it is an employer’s duty to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees and other people who might be affected by their work activities. This means ensuring, as far as reasonably practicable, that workers and others are protected from any risks arising from work activities.
The primary aim of an occupational health management referral is to advise management regarding your health issue and to make recommendations on what workplace adjustments could be considered to ensure a safe/healthy working environment for you.
Under the Employment Rights Act 1996 all employees have the legal right to request flexible working. If you are suffering from ill health or a disability, your employer should first be looking for ways to make reasonable adjustments to ensure your safety and that of others.
What does an assessment involve
Each Occupational Health report will be tailored to the individual and their situation but it can include:
- Advice on the medical condition itself
- Addressing symptoms
- A prognosis
- Likelihood of recovery
- What adjustments could be considered in the workplace
An Occupational Health Assessment is NOT normally intended for diagnosis or treatment purposes though in some cases the Doctor could make suggestions for the employee to discuss with their own medical practitioners.
What will happen after my assessment?
After your appointment, a report will be sent to management to give them an expert medical opinion, as well as sufficient information to enable them to make any onward decisions with appropriate knowledge. You can request to view this report.
