FAQs about health surveillance
Q. Why do I need health surveillance?
A. If you are working with tools, or in an area where you are exposed to any hazardous materials, noise or vibration your employer has to provide appropriate health surveillance, this is a legal requirement, and is based on the assessment of risk, and what health surveillance you require depends on the job you do and the tools and/or hazards to which you are exposed.
Q. Can I opt out of attending for health surveillance?
A. If you are working in an area, or with tools, which are covered by the laws outlined above, then you are required to attend for health surveillance. Attendance is mandatory, not voluntary and you cannot opt out.
Q. What will happen when I arrive for my appointment?
A. The Occupational Health Advisor will introduce him or herself to you and request that you complete a questionnaire. The questions are about: lungs, hearing, skin and vibration and depend on your answering them honestly. If you have any problem with this form, the advisor will be happy to help you, just ask. Once you have completed the questionnaire, the advisor will go over it with you and may ask a few more questions depending on the responses you have put on your questionnaire. The advisor will only ask questions related to the questionnaire, usually to clarify something.
Q. What tests will I have to do?
A. Depending on what risk you are exposed to, the health surveillance will involve what is appropriate for you.