Employers are more commonly screening their employees as part of their selection process in order to take a baseline reading of prospective employees
. The process of pre-employment medicals allows the employer to ascertain whether the prospective employee will be suited to the work environment and to ensure that they are able to comply with health and safety regulations.
Why do employers request medicals?
Employers can request medicals for a number of different reasons, including but not limited to:
1. Physical capacity
For certain jobs with justifiable physical requirements, it is often useful for employers to establish regular medical testing to ensure employees continue to meet the requirements of the occupation and are not at risk of injury. Jobs may include positions within the defence force, professional sports, trades, and the resources sector.
2. Mental capacity
Particular jobs that are of high risk or exist in high-pressure environments may require medicals that analyse the potential employees mental capacity. Jobs may include positions such as a Flight Controller at a major airport, or a top-level security job working for an organisation such as ASIO.
3. Drug screening
Many employers choose to screen employees for drug use, particularly in high risk settings where drug use might put themselves or others at risk.
What are the benefits of conducting pre-employment medicals?
Conducting pre-employment medicals can assist Human Resource Management to gain an overall medical view of a prospective employee and can allow them to ascertain whether they will be suited to a particular work environment. The process also allows employers to be aware of how existing medical issues can be addressed and that precautions are taken to ensure that existing injuries are not exacerbated. From an occupational health and safety perspective, pre-employment medical allow companies the opportunity to minimise any potential future injuries through thorough assessment.
What are some of the things to look for in a pre-employment medical provider?
Experience with working closely with employers
Ability to tailor pre-employment medicals to the type of business the employee will be employed in.
Experience in injury management and workcover.
We hope this brief introduction to employment medical testing has highlighted the reasons why pre-employment medicals are worthwhile for employers. If you need to book in a pre-employment medical, we recommend the Bowen Hills Medical Centre in inner northern Brisbane. They have an extensive history in providing medicals that are tailored to meet employers needs.