FAQs
Frequently asked questions about occupational health.
These answers are designed to make occupational health easier to understand in real workplace situations, from pre-employment assessments to sickness absence, health surveillance and workplace adjustments.
Questions and answers
Frequently asked questions about occupational health
01 What is occupational health?
Occupational health is a specialist branch of medicine focused on the relationship between health and work. It helps employers understand how health affects work, how work may affect health, and what practical adjustments or controls may be needed.
02 Why organise an occupational health assessment?
Occupational health assessments can support recruitment, sickness absence management, rehabilitation, legal compliance, return to work planning and early identification of work-related ill health.
03 What is the difference between occupational health and occupational therapy?
Occupational health focuses on health in relation to work and employment. Occupational therapy focuses on helping people perform day-to-day activities more effectively after illness, injury or disability.
04 Is an occupational health assessment compulsory?
Not always, but some health surveillance and statutory medical requirements arise where specific workplace risks or regulations apply. We can help you identify where surveillance or medicals are required.
05 What are examples of recommendations from an OH assessment?
Recommendations may include workplace adjustments, phased return to work arrangements, temporary restrictions, surveillance follow-up, referral for treatment, review points or advice on fitness for specific duties.
06 How do you handle personal data?
Occupational health records are handled confidentially and in line with GDPR, professional codes of conduct and The-OHC privacy procedures. Medical information is not shared outside occupational health without informed consent unless legally required.
