How Occupational Health and Safety Services Can Minimise Risks in the Workplace

Occupational health and safety services are extremely important for workplaces of all sizes and industries. Without proper occupational health and safety services, employees may suffer from health issues like injuries, work related stress, and long term conditions, while businesses risk legal liabilities and damage to their reputation, making these services essential. At Precision Health, we provide a range of occupational health and safety services that help minimise risks and protect staff in the workplace. In this post, we’ll highlight the importance of occupational health and safety services, their benefits, and the various types of services that can be implemented in the workplace.

What are Occupational Health and Safety Services?

Occupational health and safety services are designed to ensure the physical and mental well being of employees while preventing accidents, illnesses, and injuries. These services benefit companies across a wide range of industries but are especially crucial in higher risk sectors such as construction, healthcare, and manufacturing, where the health and well being of the team are vital for performing their jobs properly and safely. While many companies may overlook occupational health and safety services, they are extremely important in preventing situations that could put your staff, clients, or patients at risk. Partnering with an occupational health and safety provider can ensure the health and well being of your employees.

The Benefits of Using Occupational Health and Safety Services

There are a number of benefits for companies when using occupational health and safety services in the workplace that can help minimise risks, enhance employee well being, and improve overall company performance. Below, we highlight some of the key benefits of implementing occupational health and safety services in the workplace:

• Reduced Absenteeism: Regular health assessments help prevent illness and injuries, which in turn reduces sick days. By addressing health issues early, employees are less likely to need extended time off. This leads to a more consistent workforce and less disruption to business operations.

• Improved Productivity: Healthier employees are more focused, engaged, and efficient in their roles. When employees are well, they are better able to concentrate on tasks and perform at their best. This results in higher overall productivity and better results for the company.

• Enhanced Compliance: Occupational health services help businesses stay compliant with health and safety regulations, avoiding legal issues. By ensuring that health checks and safety protocols are followed, companies can reduce the risk of fines or legal claims. This not only protects the business but also contributes to a safer working environment.

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Occupational Health and Safety Tests to Implement in the Workplace

There are a range of occupational health and safety tests that can be implemented in the workplace. These tests help to identify risks and ensure the well-being of employees working in different environments and below we go over some of the most common types of tests;

Ergonomic Workplace Assessment (DSE Assessment)

Ergonomic workplace assessments are some of the most common assessments that companies choose. Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessments focus on posture, workstation setup, and comfort to prevent musculoskeletal disorders. The assessment can identify ergonomic issues, such as incorrect desk height or poor screen positioning, offering solutions like adjustable chairs or keyboard placements to reduce strain. They are particularly useful for companies with employees who work long hours and use screens frequently.

Vision (VDU) Assessment

Vision assessments are important for employees who work with screens regularly, but also for those in jobs where clear vision is essential for performing tasks effectively. VDU (Visual Display Unit) assessments help identify eye strain, vision problems, and potential long term issues, whether employees are using screens or performing other tasks that require focused vision. These assessments ensure that employees’ vision is adequate for the work they do and help prevent eye fatigue, discomfort, and potential long term vision problems.

Hearing (Audiometry) Assessment 

Hearing assessments are crucial for employees working in noisy environments where prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to hearing damage. Audiometry assessments measure hearing ability and help detect early signs of hearing loss before it becomes a serious issue. These assessments identify employees who may be at risk of hearing loss due to their work environment and allow businesses to implement strategies such as ear protection or noise-reducing measures.

There are also a number of other occupational health and safety services available. For example, lung function (spirometry) assessments are crucial for employees working in environments with respiratory risks, helping to monitor and maintain lung health. Immunity and vaccination programs are particularly important in healthcare and high contact industries, helping to protect employees and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

Additionally, night worker assessments are designed to reduce the risks associated with night shift work, while confined space worker assessments ensure safety for employees working in restricted or hazardous spaces. The types of assessments chosen depend on the industry and the specific health and safety needs of a workforce.

Occupational Health and Safety Services for Irish Businesses

Here at Precision Health, we offer a range of occupational health and safety services for businesses to ensure staff are safe and compliant in the workplace. 

Since 2014, we have been partnering with Irish businesses to deliver occupational health and wellness programs to a diverse range of businesses across various industries. We offer a range of occupational health and safety tests, including ergonomic assessments, vision assessments, hearing assessments, lung function assessments, and many others.

We work with businesses to help identify which health and safety services are suited to their needs, and develop an occupational health and safety plan tailored specifically for them. For further information on our occupational health and safety services, contact Precision Health today, and we will be happy to assist you further.