Services > Health Surveillance

What is Health Surveillance?

Health Surveillance is the physical examination of specific health risks identified within a particular occupation. Health Surveillance is carried out in order to:

• Ensure compliance with legislation
• Reduce the risk of potential litigation
• Identify adverse health effects related to employee occupation
• Assess and ensure fitness for the occupation
• Ensure effective evaluation of control measures
• Protect the health of the employee

Who will require Health Surveillance?

Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, section 8 and section 22, employees whose occupation retain significant health risks to their health must have appropriate health surveillance.

What types of examinations are required?

Examinations are required that detect and assess systemically the adverse effects on health, for example

• Audiometry (hearing tests) for workers exposed to >85dBA
• Lung function testing for those exposed to known respiratory sensitising substances
• Vision screening for those using VDU for >1hour per day as part of their occupation.

HealthForce Health Surveillance Services:

HealthForce will identify hazards to employee health through the risk assessment process and advise on health surveillance required accordingly. Our services include the following programmes:

Biological Monitoring Programmes:

• Respiratory Surveillance (basic and advanced lung function testing available)
• Audiometry
• Lead levels
• Skin Surveillance Programmes

Visual Examination Programmes

• Distance vision testing
• Intermediate Vision testing (VDU users)
• Near Vision testing
• Colour vision testing
• Visual field and depth perception testing

What are the benefits to my organisation?

• Compliance with Irish health and safety legislation and European Directives
• Protection of employees
• Reduction of occupational illness and injury
• Reduced risk of litigation
• Reduced insurance premiums
• Early identification of health risks