The timing of these medicals matters because each stage serves a different purpose.
A pre-employment or baseline medical helps establish an employee’s health status before exposure begins. This creates a starting point for future comparison and helps determine whether the employee is medically suited to the work involved.
Periodic medicals take place during employment. They help monitor workers who face ongoing exposure to hazards such as noise, chemicals, dust or other occupational risks. Regular surveillance helps identify possible changes in health early.
An exit medical takes place when an employee leaves a role or when exposure ends. This provides a final health record linked to the employee’s period of exposure.
Employers should also keep accurate occupational health records. Clear records support ongoing monitoring, help demonstrate compliance and provide useful information where future health concerns arise.
The correct medical programme depends on the work being performed, the hazards involved and the applicable occupational health requirements.
Occupational medicals should form part of a structured workplace health programme, rather than being treated as a once-off requirement.
Isiviko Health & Safety helps employers understand which occupational medicals apply to their workplace and how to manage the process correctly.
Contact Isiviko Health & Safety to discuss your occupational medical requirements.