Protecting the health of your workforce is not only vital for your workers, but also critical for the efficiency of your business. Regular health screening helps managers identify workers who require additional support or are no longer fit to do their role. In this blog we will look at the benefits of health screening and how it contributes towards a more productive workplace.

Why health screening is important

Health screening, otherwise known as health surveillance, involves conducting medical tests aimed at detecting health issues before they become serious problems. These tests can range from simple blood pressure checks to comprehensive physical exams. Tests are usually selected based on the worker’s job role and its associated conditions, such as silicosis for a stone cutter or hand arm vibration syndrome for a construction worker.

Prevention is better than cure. Many conditions can develop without any noticeable symptoms, which is why screening is so important. By identifying health issues at an early stage, employers can intervene to prevent workers developing chronic health problems. Certain jobs in particular are more likely to cause health problems later down the road and in these cases surveillance can stop these workers from worsening their condition.

Regular health screening also contributes to wellbeing. By staying informed about their health status, workers can make lifestyle changes that enhance their quality of life. Adopting healthier eating habits, increasing physical activity and managing stress effectively will not only make your workforce happier and healthier, but also more productive. Catching illnesses and injuries at an early stage can also increase life expectancy.

In some sectors, health surveillance is a regulatory requirement. The law requires medical surveillance for workers exposed to asbestos, lead and ionising radiation. Even when controls have been put in place to protect workers, screening is still required to identify the early signs of ill health. Often professional bodies will also put certain obligations in place order to achieve accreditation.

Benefits to employees

• Peace of mind: regular screening can alleviate workers’ anxiety about potential health issues being caused by their work. This can help them to focus better on their daily tasks.
• Health insights: employees can receive valuable information about their risk factors and potential health problems, enabling them to take proactive steps to address those issues.
• Reduced absenteeism: healthy employees are less likely to take sick leave, which means they won’t lose out on earnings and have increased morale.
• Healthier choices: employees can become empowered to make informed decisions about their health. This could include quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption or making dietary adjustments.

Benefits to employers

• Improved productivity: healthy employees have higher energy levels, better focus and greater efficiency. Regular health screening helps maintain the workforce’s health, directly contributing to its productivity.
• Enhanced morale: employees are more likely to stay with a company that prioritises their health. Implementing health surveillance shows that you care about the wellbeing of your employees.
• Compliance with regulations: many industries have regulations regarding employee health and safety. Regular health screenings help employers comply with these regulations, avoiding potential fines and legal issues.
• Health conscious environment: health screening fosters a culture of health and wellness. This encourages employees to prioritise their health and engage in healthier behaviours.

Implementing a health screening program

The easiest way to offer onsite health screening is to partner with a healthcare provider. Screening is usually delivered by technicians, nurses and physicians who work in-house for the occupational health company. It’s a convenient way for employees to be seen and ensures that surveillance is conducted by qualified professionals.

A comprehensive health screening program should cover a range of tests and examinations tailored to the specific needs of the workforce. This might include blood tests, cholesterol checks, blood pressure monitoring and assessments for specific health conditions.

After initial screening, it’s important to encourage employees to seek follow-up care if needed. This could involve regular check-ups, lifestyle changes, or specific treatments recommended by occupational health professionals.

Employees should feel comfortable participating in screening without concerns about privacy. Employers must ensure that all health information is kept confidential and used solely for the purpose of improving employee health.

Final thoughts

Regular screening promotes the early detection of health issues and empowers employees to live healthier lives. By investing in the health of your workforce, you can create a more productive work environment. Contact us today to learn about we can bring the best out of your workforce. You can call us on 0121 601 4041 or e-mail us at info@mohs.co.uk