Know your numbers week: The role of occupational health

As Know Your Numbers Week sweeps across the UK, it's an ideal time to focus on the critical role that occupational health plays in promoting a healthier workforce. This annual campaign, by Blood Pressure UK, aims to raise awareness of the dangers associated with high blood pressure, a condition often referred to as the "silent killer" because it typically presents no symptoms. The primary goal is to encourage regular monitoring of blood pressure to prevent severe health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.

High blood pressure is a significant public health issue in the UK, affecting around 14.4 million adults. It is a leading cause of preventable deaths, contributing to more than 50% of all strokes and heart attacks in the country. Despite these alarming statistics, many people remain unaware of their high blood pressure.

How occupational health can drive preventive healthcare

Going beyond basic health and safety regulations, by providing a comprehensive approach to employee wellbeing, occupational health is essential in maintaining a healthy workforce.

With the increasing prevalence of workplace stress and lifestyle-related health issues, occupational health services have become more vital than ever.

For employers, integrating occupational health services into the workplace offers numerous benefits. These services provide regular health screenings that can detect potential health risks early, such as high blood pressure. Early detection allows for timely interventions, which can significantly reduce the risk of more severe health problems down the line. Moreover, a healthy workforce is not only more productive but also contributes to reduced absenteeism, staff turnover and lower healthcare costs for employers.

Government's new health check scheme

We welcome the UK government’s initiative to provide workplace health checks, particularly focusing on cardiovascular diseases. This scheme is set to benefit over 130,000 employees across the country, This initiative aims to provide over 130,000 employees across various sectors, such as construction, hospitality, and social care, with access to cardiovascular disease risk assessments at their place of work. The programme is designed to facilitate early detection and prevention of diseases like heart disease and stroke, ultimately reducing the burden on the NHS by shifting the focus from treatment to prevention​.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve public health and enhance economic productivity through a healthier workforce. Additionally, a digital version of these checks is set to be tested in 2025, offering even more flexibility and convenience.

It also highlights the growing recognition of the workplace as a critical venue for health interventions, which occupational health services are well-positioned to deliver.

How OH One can support your workforce

At OH One, we are committed to helping employers create a healthier, more productive workplace. Our comprehensive occupational health services include regular health screenings that can identify potential health risks before they become severe.

We offer tailored health screening programmes that can be conducted on-site, making it convenient for your employees to access these vital services. By bringing health checks directly to the workplace, we help to remove barriers such as time constraints or accessibility issues that might otherwise prevent employees from getting checked.

Our services also include follow-up support, ensuring that your employees receive the necessary care and guidance to manage their health effectively. This proactive approach not only helps to improve individual health outcomes but also contributes to a healthier, more resilient workforce.

Evidence-Based Benefits of Occupational Health Services:

• Reduced Absenteeism: According to research from the Centre for Mental Health, addressing health issues early can reduce absenteeism by up to 30%​

• Increased Productivity: A study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that companies with strong health and wellness programmes see a 25% increase in employee productivity​

• Cost Savings: The same study noted that for every £1 invested in workplace health initiatives, companies could see a return of £3 in reduced health-related costs​

Take Action Today

By prioritising the health and wellbeing of their employees, employers can foster a culture of health that benefits both the individual and the organisation. Healthy employees are more engaged, more productive, and less likely to take time off due to illness. Furthermore, providing access to regular health checks demonstrates a commitment to employee welfare, which can enhance job satisfaction and retention.

To learn more about how OH One can support your employees with health screenings and checks, contact us today. Let’s work together to ensure that everyone in your organisation knows their numbers and takes proactive steps towards better health.

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