What do I need to consider regarding occupational medicine when hiring new employees?
September 19, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Selma Stamm
Dear Doctor,
I am Carsten Köhler and I work in the human resources department of a medium-sized company. Lately, we have hired some new employees and I am concerned whether we are doing everything right in terms of occupational medicine during the hiring process.
Our company does not have specific guidelines or processes for the occupational health examination of new employees. While we do conduct a general health check, I wonder if that is sufficient. What specific examinations or tests should we perform to ensure that the new employees are healthy enough to perform their duties?
Furthermore, I am wondering if there are legal requirements that we need to consider when it comes to occupational health examinations during the hiring of new employees. Are there specific guidelines or best practices that we should follow to ensure that we are acting correctly in this area?
I want to ensure that as a company, we are doing everything we can to ensure the health and safety of our employees, but I am unsure of the best way to do so. Can you please provide me with guidance on what to look for in terms of occupational medicine when hiring new employees and what measures we can take to ensure that we are compliant with the law?
Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Carsten Köhler
Dear Mr. Köhler,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding occupational medical examinations for new employees in your company. It is commendable that you are concerned about the health and safety of your employees and want to ensure that you comply with all legal requirements.
First and foremost, it is important to emphasize that occupational medical examinations for new employees are not legally required in Germany. However, there are some laws and regulations that require employers to ensure the health and safety of their employees. This includes the Occupational Safety and Health Act (ArbSchG) and the Workplace Ordinance.
Nevertheless, it is advisable to conduct occupational medical examinations to ensure that the new employees are physically capable of fulfilling their duties. When designing these examinations, you should follow the recommendations of the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV). This includes recommending pre-employment medical examinations as well as regular occupational medical examinations during employment.
During the pre-employment occupational medical examination, aspects such as physical fitness, any pre-existing conditions, and suitability for the employee's planned activities should be examined. Psychological stress should also be taken into account. Furthermore, you should ensure that the examinations are conducted by qualified occupational physicians or company doctors.
It is also important that you treat the results of the occupational medical examinations confidentially and only make them accessible to individuals who rely on them for health protection or workplace design reasons.
In summary, while there is no legal obligation for occupational medical examinations for new employees, it is advisable to conduct them to ensure the health and safety of your employees. Follow the recommendations of the DGUV and ensure that the examinations are conducted by qualified professionals.
I hope these guidelines are helpful to you and I am happy to assist if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
Selma Stamm
