1. Good Health Alan Swann, OH Service

2. Health & work The starting point Work is good for health Almost all arrive in a good enough state of health to do their job Most have reasonable resilience But… Many jobs involve exposure to hazards Health status can affect safety New job  new challenges Stuff happens »Health can change »Coping ability fluctuates So… Health risks need to be managed

3. Physical Health risks Musculoskeletal injuries Back strain RSI Infection Laboratory work clinical work overseas travel Allergy Animal work Laboratory/ clinical work (latex) Workshops (colophony solder) Chemical exposures Laboratories Workshops

4. When it goes wrong

7. Managing physical health risks Safe systems of work Assess the risk Devise & implement controls Review Induct & inform Health assessment/ screening Fitness Vulnerabilities Health protection Vaccinations Health surveillance Animal work Other allergens

8. Stress Is common Is damaging To the individual To the work To the organisation Is contagious

9. Stress: management ‘s perspective Demand Control Support Role Relationships Change

10. Stress: the individual’s experience Insecurity Unresolved conflict Lack of respect Personal work skills

11. Avoiding stress Clear definition The job Expectations Roles Good communication Appraisal Training needs assessment Feedback Early recognition & resolution of disagreement

12. Health issues: Support Occupational Health Health & Safety »Assistance with risk assessments »Assessing individual fitness »Vaccinations »Health surveillance »Travel health services Staff management »Managing staff with health problems »Consultancy on health concerns »Absence management »Rehabilitation »Disability support Care First Supporting staff Supporting managers

13. Managing health risks: the Head of Department’s role Promoting a positive health & safety culture Encouraging development of line manager competancies Maintaining awareness Health & safety issues Absence Considering health issues when: Planning Implementing change Setting objectives Conflict resolution

14. Coming your way… Off-site work policy Health clearance for travel to tropics Pandemic flu Contingency planning »Research continuity »Critical staff Staff survey Encouraging involvement Following through Rehabilitation policy Early OH assessment in long-term absence Rehabilitation into work