What Is an Occupational Health Service?
Occupational health services are a vital component of maintaining a healthy, safe workplace. They are responsible for evaluating the potential risks of workers' health and providing advice on the control measures that should be implemented to reduce the risk of illness. In addition, they can recommend modifications of the working environment or the type of job that may be suitable for the individual worker. Moreover, they can arrange for emergency first aid.
In addition to the basic function of providing medical treatment, occupational health services can also refer workers to rehabilitation facilities when they are injured or ill. They can provide advice on how to modify the work environment to accommodate an injured worker, or even suggest alternative staffing arrangements that can reduce production schedules. In some cases, they can perform special ergonomic checks. In such cases, their services can be reimbursed by social security.
Occupational health services must meet the unique needs of their enterprise and their workers. In some instances, they may also be called upon to perform general non-occupational health care, such as for the workers' families. In some countries, the legal framework for occupational health services is very fragmented. It may not apply to certain sectors or to all enterprises. In those instances, it is important to consult the employer and the workers to determine what services will best fit their needs.
The WHO defines occupational health as "a process that promotes physical, mental, and social well-being of workers and their communities". It is also a means of preventing ill-health and accidents. Its aim is to ensure conditions at the workplace that ensure the highest possible quality of working life. Learn more about Meridian Occupational Services or check out these Occupational Health Services.
A number of international health instruments have served as guidelines for national programmes and legislation. These documents include the Rio Declaration, which emphasizes the right of workers to live healthy, productive lives in harmony with nature. In addition, Agenda 21, which was developed by the United Nations, touched on several aspects of the human environment, including chemicals in the workplace.
Occupational health services also provide advice on preventative measures that can reduce sick days and absenteeism. They can recommend modifying the work environment, reducing the physical demands of an ageing workforce, and providing workers with special equipment. In addition, they can also provide coaching to help employees improve their wellness. In addition, they can provide quality products and equitable access.
Occupational health services are a cost-effective means of improving the health of workers. For example, the provision of a thermometer for use in the workplace can reduce sick days. Similarly, an on-site clinic can provide workers with access to telemedicine or behavioral health experts. In addition, workers can receive training in first aid. This training is a primary responsibility of occupational health services.
An occupational health service should also be able to assess the connections between occupational hazards and the health impairments of workers. They should be able to provide a personal and comprehensive assessment of the health and safety risks of workers. The information gathered can be used for evaluation of engineering, health, and safety control measures. Moreover, it can be used for epidemiological surveys and revision of permissible exposure levels. You can see more on this here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HDeQL71_kM.