subject: Workplace Medicals Everything You Need To Know [print this page] It is becoming increasingly common for employers to medically screen potential candidates for certain positions in the workplace. The process allows employers to know whether or not a certain candidate is physically and mentally fit for the workplace and are compliant with all the relevant health and safety regulations.
Reasons why employers request workplace medicals
1. Physical ability
Certain jobs may require the candidate to meet justifiable physical requirements. Examples of such jobs may include but are not limited to: The Armed Forces, Removalists, Firefighters, Police, etc. This is because jobs like these require the employee that fills the position to have a particular level of physical ability to conduct their job correctly.
2. Mental aptitude
Jobs that exist in high-pressure environments commonly require regular medical checks for mental aptitude and functioning. Examples of such jobs may include but are not limited to: Flight Controllors, The Armed Forces, positions within ASIO, etc. This is because the health and safety of others can rely on the ability of these positions to carry out their role effectively.
3. Drug screening
In high-risk positions where drug use can put themselves or others at risk, employers often request regular workplace medicals to screen employees for drug use.
Benefits of Workplace Medicals
Essentially, the main benefit of conducting medical screening for an employer is the proactive prevention of any potential liability that may come from not identifying a pre-existing medical condition before it is too late. It also allows HR managers to ascertain whether a candidate is medically suitable for a position, and if a particular medical condition comes to light, processes can be put in place so the condition is not exacerbated by duties in the workplace.
Qualities to look for in a workplace medical provider
Experience in injury management and workcover.
Ability to tailor medicals to the type of role the potential employee will undertake.
Previous working experience with employers.
We hope this brief introduction to workplace medicals has highlighted the reasons why employers need employees in a particular position to undertake the tests. If you need to book in a workplace medical, we recommend the Bowen Hills Medical Centre in inner northern Brisbane. They have an extensive history in providing employment medical tests that meet employers needs.
