A branch of medicine dealing with the effects of various occupations on health, and with an individual’s capacity for particular types of work. It includes prevention of occupational disease and injury and the promotion of health in the working population. Epidemiology is used to analyse patterns of sickness absence, injury, illness, and death. Clinical techniques are used to monitor the health of a particular workforce. Assessment of psychological stress and hazards of new technology are part of the remit. Occupational health risks are reduced by dust control, appropriate waste disposal, use of safe work stations and practices, limiting exposure to harmful substances, and screening for early evidence of occupational disorders.
Occupational medicine |
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