Fitness for work assessments

Fitness for work

Fitness for work assessments: Prioritising worker health and workplace safety

A fitness for work assessment is more than a box-ticking exercise—it’s a proactive approach to safeguarding both employees and organisations. Conducted by occupational health professionals, these assessments evaluate whether an individual can perform their job duties safely and effectively, taking into account their health conditions and the demands of their role. But why are these assessments so critical, and what exactly do they involve?

What is a Fitness for Work Assessment?

At its core, a fitness for work assessment is about aligning the health of employees with the requirements of their job. It asks questions like:

Can the individual perform their duties without risking harm to themselves or others?
Are there any adjustments or modifications that could help them work safely and confidently?
Have you been advised that an employee has a specific vulnerability?

Our process is thorough and empathetic, evaluating the employee’s medical history, their current health status, and the specific demands of their role. Occupational health professionals evaluate the individual’s health status to provide tailored recommendations.

Why Are They So Important?

Fitness for work assessments benefit everyone because they identify individual vulnerabilities to help employers keep their people safe at work:

Safeguarding Employee wellbeing: These evaluations ensure that employees are not exposed to tasks or environments that could aggravate existing health conditions or create new risks.
Boosting Productivity and Morale: Identifying issues early allows for adjustments that help employees perform at their best, contributing to a happier and more productive team.
Meeting Legal Obligations: Employers are required to ensure a safe workplace under health and safety legislation. Fitness assessments help demonstrate compliance while reducing liability

Employment health outcomes

We accept fitness for work referrals from OH companies where remote screening has identified complex risks that need specialist review within the workplace.

The results of a Workability fitness for work assessment fall into three main categories:

Fit for Work: The employee is ready to carry out their duties without any restrictions.
Fit with Restrictions: Adjustments, such as modified working hours, adapted workspaces, or reduced physical strain, are recommended to help the individual work safely and effectively.
Not Fit for Work: The employee cannot safely perform their role at this time, and further medical support may be needed.

By focusing on the unique needs of employees and the demands of their roles, fitness for work assessments provide a vital tool for promoting workplace safety and well-being. They help create an environment where employees feel supported, valued, and empowered to contribute their best.