What Is an Occupational Health Service?

Occupational health is a field of study that focuses on the wellbeing of workers. It aims to help employers avoid the risks of work-related illnesses and injuries, and also to support employees who experience stress or sickness. It includes the analysis of ergonomics, the promotion of healthy working practices, and the development of a safe and healthy workplace. It may also include specialized counseling.

The World Health Organization has played a key role in the global development of occupational health. It is a member of the global plan of action on workers' health 2008-2017, and has been asked to provide guidance on the implementation of good practice models and methods, as well as to promote international efforts in capacity building.

It has also been recognized that the best way to protect workers from workplace accidents is to establish proactive, multidisciplinary occupational health programs. These programs have several benefits for both the employer and the employee. They can create a safer workplace, prevent illness, and even help injured workers get back on their feet. They can also improve the quality of life for the employees and save time and money for the company. Check out these Workplace Wellness Programs or find trusted Occupational Health Services.

Occupational health services are typically provided by a team of occupational health professionals including physiotherapists, occupational health physicians, and occupational safety specialists. They can be part of a company's external service or function as a special service unit in an internal setting. They can also function individually, like an internal medicine specialist. They are designed to help employers reduce the risks of workplace illnesses and injuries, keep employees safe, and ensure that they comply with legal obligations.

Traditionally, OH frameworks have focused on physical and biological hazards at the workplace. This approach might not be practical in a developing country setting. In addition, a traditional OH framework often is a fit for a large, centralized company with an educated workforce. The World Health Organization suggests that occupational health must be incorporated into broader public health care models, aimed at different stages of economic development.

The ILO/WHO Joint Committee on Occupational Health has made major contributions to the definition of concepts, and has aided the transfer of concepts from one country to another. It has held 12 meetings since 1950.

Some of the most common occupational health interventions include health education and counseling, first aid, and the use of protective clothing, tools, and equipment. A pre-placement physical examination can also be useful in determining if a prospective employee is suited to a particular job.

An occupational health service might offer the following services: health assessment, injury prevention, wellness, and disease surveillance. The cost effectiveness of these programs can be improved by implementing interventions, which are relatively short in duration and relatively low in cost. Ideally, all parties involved in the process, including the employer, workers, and health care providers, communicate effectively.

There are two primary ways to improve the availability of occupational health services: a sense of urgency and the use of interventions. The latter can be achieved through relatively inexpensive measures that can be implemented by all parties. You can see more on this here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JeOJO8jmlI.