Policy Reference
This policy document refers to the following aims and objectives outlined in the Council’s general statement of Health & Safety Policy
The responsibility to ensure so far as is reasonably practicable that working conditions and all work activities and workplace locations are free from avoidable risks to health.
The commitment to appropriate health surveillance and health promotion.
Policy Statement
Occupational Health relates to the effects that the working environment may have on the health of an employee. It also takes account of the influence that an employee’s health may have on their ability to carry out their work. The Highland Council recognises the benefits of good health and will endeavour to promote and maintain the highest degree of physical, mental and social well being of its employees. The following Occupational Health Strategy has been formulated to assist in meeting this policy statement.
Occupational Health Strategy
The Highland Council will provide an Occupational Health Service to its employees through the employment of an Occupational Health Adviser and where necessary referral to external Medical Advisers.
The Occupational Health Adviser will assist management and staff to:
- Identify jobs with health risks and provide advice on known risks
- Identify hazards and appropriate controls for health risks at work
- Undertake pre-employment health screening
- Undertake health surveillance
- Promote good health among employees
- Provide training, information and guidance on health aspects of employment
- Ensure relevant first aid training is provided to employees
- Undertake health assessment on referral
Guidance
Guidance notes will be issued in support of various aspects of the Occupational Health Strategy including:
- Procedures for referral to the Occupational Health service
- Blood borne infections
- Lifestyle and health screening
- Immunisation arrangements
- Specific health risks
Legal Reference
This policy and its associated guidance notes, outline the provisions the Council will make to discharge its duties in relation to the following statutory requirements
The Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974, Section 2 – "The duty to provide and maintain a working environment for employees that is, so far as is reasonably practicable, safe without risks to health and adequate as regards facilities and arrangements for their welfare at work."
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulation 1992, Regulation 5, "The duty to provide health surveillance".