Frequently Asked Question 

Health surveillance focuses on the health of staff in the workplace – and is a legal requirement in some workplaces. It involves checking employees’ health where their work could put them at risk of developing work-related illness.

Common examples include:

• Hearing checks for people exposed to high noise levels
• Skin checks for those working with hazardous substances
• Lung function tests for employees exposed to dust or fumes

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides clear guidance on what health surveillance is and when it may be needed.

When is Health Surveillance Required?

Health surveillance is needed when a risk assessment shows that employees are exposed to hazards that could cause work-related ill health and where monitoring health is appropriate. Results are compared over time, allowing an ongoing overview of employees’ health and early identification of any potential changes.

Health surveillance does not replace good safety controls, such as ventilation or protective equipment. Instead, it supports them by:

• Identifying early signs of harm
• Checking whether control measures are working
• Helping to prevent long-term illness

Who Carries out Health Surveillance?

Health surveillance must be carried out by a competent occupational health professional, such as an occupational health technician, adviser, nurse or doctor who is trained in workplace health risks.

The employer is responsible for:

• Arranging appropriate health surveillance
• Ensuring it is suitable for the risks involved
• Acting on the results to protect employees

What Checks are Included in Health Surveillance?

The checks carried out depend on the job and the risks involved. They may include some or all of the following;

• Health questionnaire
• Blood pressure, height and weight
• Hearing (audiometry)
• Vision
• Lung function (respiratory)
• Skin checks
• Hand-arm vibration assessments (HAVS)
• Face Fit testing

Not everyone will need all of these checks.

Where is Health Surveillance Carried Out?

Medicals can take place at Safewell in Royal Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire, or at customer sites if multiple appointments are required. A quiet, well-ventilated, private room is required, with access to a power point.

What Happens after Health Surveillance?

Results are reviewed and employers are sent a certificate of fitness to work – no medical history is shared unless the employee has given full consent. Where necessary, Safewell will advise the employer on any reasonable adjustment and/or implementing control measures or alternative working practices to safeguard the employee’s wellbeing.

Health surveillance isn’t just about collecting information – it’s about preventing harm and keeping people safe at work.