Skip to main content
What Is Occupational Health

What Is Occupational Health?

Written by W.E.U Admin on . Posted in Industry.

What Do Occupational Health Professionals Do?

Occupational Health is a specific discipline in healthcare that focuses on the health and wellbeing of people at work. It aims to prevent and remove ill-health and develop solutions to support employees facing health challenges. Learn more about Occupational Health.

  • Pre-employment health assessments: Establish a safe system of work for prospective employees.
  • Vaccination programmes: Offer immunisations based on workplace hazards and risks.
  • Statutory health surveillance: Undertake programmes when employees may be exposed to hazardous substances or noise. Discover health surveillance.
  • Independent advice: Provide guidance on any health issue impacting an individual at work.
  • Health and wellbeing strategies: Develop policies to promote and maintain optimal work health.
  • Equality Act compliance: Advise on the Equality Act 2010, including disability, age discrimination and pregnancy.
  • Workplace adjustments: Recommend temporary or permanent adjustments to support an individual’s health. Find out more.
  • Distinction from Occupational Therapy: Although roles may overlap, Occupational Health professionals are not the same as Occupational Therapists. More information is available here.

Why Do Individuals Get Referred to Occupational Health?

When you’re referred by your manager or HR, you should receive a clear explanation of the reasons for referral along with a copy of the referral document. If you haven’t, contact your manager to clarify or seek advice from your Union.

Note: You don’t need to be absent from work to be referred. Anyone experiencing health issues that affect their performance or safety at work can access support and advice.

What Should I Expect from an Occupational Health Appointment?

Appointments can be in person or via MS Teams, Zoom or telephone. You’ll discuss the reason for referral and have a confidential conversation about your health. No sensitive information will be shared with management or HR without your explicit consent.

The resulting report guides management/HR and may include recommendations for support and adjustments to ensure a safe working environment. Employees are usually offered the chance to review the report before it’s sent. If this isn’t offered, consider contacting the Union for guidance.

Can I Bring Someone to My Occupational Health Appointment?

Yes. You can bring a friend or Trade Union representative for support. If this option isn’t offered, or you need assistance, please contact the Union office.



workersofengland.co.uk | Independent Workers Trade Union