The importance of occupational medicine goes far beyond mere compliance with legislation. It is a fundamental service for both companies and workers.
In this article, we clear up all your doubts about this medical specialty.
What is occupational medicine?
The main objective of occupational medicine is to protect workers’ health, prevent occupational illnesses, i.e. illnesses related to the tasks performed in the workplace, psychosocial risks, and improve the state of health and quality of life of employees in a favorable working environment.
Occupational Medicine and Safety
Since its focus is the prevention of occupational illnesses, occupational medicine has to work together with safety in order to minimize illnesses.
In any case, the two sectors have a preventive function and should work together in all organizations, improving the organizational climate and keeping the company within the law.
The importance and impact of occupational medicine on companies
There are many benefits to this activity, and here are a few:
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Reduction in absences due to work-related injuries;
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Improves the company’s organizational climate;
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Increased productivity;
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It adds value to the brand;
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It conveys security and credibility to the company;
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Increases workers’ well-being.
Investment in occupational medicine has a strong impact on the type of environment the company promotes for its employees.
Frequency of tests
Induction test: must be carried out before the employee joins the company.
If this is not possible, the test should be carried out within the first 15 days of the employee being hired.
Periodic examination: essentially focused on work-related issues and therefore assesses symptoms related to the work activity carried out by the worker.
It should be carried out every two years for employees aged between 18 and 50 who do not have a high-risk occupation.
However, if the occupation is risky or if the worker is over 50, it should be carried out annually.
Occasional examination: carried out whenever the worker complains of pain in the workplace.
In addition, this type of examination is mandatory after returning from sick leave that has lasted more than 30 days, due to illness or another type of illness, in the event of an accident at work or even due to a change in working conditions.
It is important to note that the occupational doctor, if he or she deems it necessary, can increase or reduce the frequency of these examinations, taking into account the worker’s state of health and all the risks of his or her work activity.
Frequently asked questions
Are consultations compulsory?
Yes.
While the company has an obligation to provide its employees with occupational health consultations, employees also have an obligation to show up.
Can tests be ordered during occupational medicine consultations?
Yes.
As a rule, tests and examinations appropriate to the job and function are requested.
If, for example, you work in a job where you spend a lot of time in front of a screen, you’ll be asked to undergo an eye test; if you work in a job where there’s a lot of noise, you’ll be asked to undergo an audiogram.
As an occupational doctor, he or she can refer the worker to other medical areas, if he or she deems it necessary, such as the family doctor, psychology, among others.
Do I have to tell the company about my test results?
In legal terms, you are not obliged to disclose your illnesses or disabilities to your company.
Whether or not you do so is entirely up to you.
Likewise, what happens during the consultation will not be communicated to the employer, as the doctor is bound by professional secrecy.
Occupational Medicine Legislation
Occupational Medicine is regulated by law 102/2009, in accordance with articles 281 to 284 of the Labor Code.
It is compulsory, applies to all branches of activity in the public, private or corporate and social sectors and is of equal importance to workers and companies.
Read also: Medical Fitness Form | SEPRI Lisboa
