Case Studies
Case Study 1
Worker suffered injury on construction site
Background
A worker suffered a serious injury while working with heavy machinery. After a period of rehabilitation, the employee was eager to return to work, but it was unclear if they could perform their previous job duties. The company wanted to assist the employee in returning to work safely and effectively, without further risk to the employee or others.
Solution
The company contacted Dorset Occupational Health to assist with the employee's return to work. Dorset Occupational Health carried out a Management Referral, and developed a modified work plan that accommodated the employee's physical restrictions while still allowing the employee to contribute to the work team safely.
Results
The employee was able to return to work safely and effectively. The modified work plan and adjustments, allowed the employee to perform job duties that were within their physical capabilities, while also contributing to the work team.
Case Study 2
Employee off sick with stress and anxiety
Background
Employee had been signed off work with stress and anxiety following increasing pressure at work and in his personal life. The company wanted to assist the employee in returning to work and managing their stress and anxiety to prevent a relapse.
It was important to ensure the employee's workload and work environment were conducive to their recovery.
Solution
The company contacted Dorset Occupational Health to assist with the employee's return to work.
We undertook a Management Referral which included; a phased return-to-work plan that included a gradual increase in workload and accommodations such as flexible hours, breaks, and additional support from colleagues; providing the employee with stress management and coping strategies, such as mindfulness techniques and relaxation exercises and signposted referrals to external resources such as counselling services or employee assistance programs.
Results
The employee was able to return to work successfully with the assistance of Dorset Occupational Health.
The gradual increase in workload and accommodations helped the employee manage their stress and anxiety and prevent a relapse. The company saw a decrease in the number of sick days and an improvement in the employee's job performance and well-being.
The employee also felt supported and valued by the company's efforts to accommodate their needs.
Case Study 3
Visit from HSE
Background
A Company had recently had a visit from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which identified a need for health surveillance to monitor employees' exposure to hazardous substances.
The company had no previous experience with health surveillance and needed assistance in setting up a program. The company needed to implement a health surveillance program to comply with HSE regulations and ensure the health and safety of their employees.
Solution
The company contacted Dorset Occupational Health to assist with setting up the health surveillance program and then conducting onsite health assessments to comply with HSE & COSHH statutory requirements.
Results
The company was able to set up a health surveillance program with the assistance of Dorset Occupational Health.
The program helped identify employees who were at risk of exposure to hazardous substances and provided monitoring to mitigate potential risks to their health. The company was able to show compliance with HSE and COSHH regulations, as well as a duty of care toward their employees.
Comprehensive, with clear guidance and advice on what support we need...
I have worked closely with Judith Cowan since 2014 after we commissioned her to carry out Occupational Health Surveillance of our staff. Judith is very professional and provides the Company with valuable healthcare advice and ongoing support.
She also provides us with independent management referral reports for assessing work related issues and fitness for work. The reports she has provided have always been comprehensive, with clear guidance and advice on what support we need to provide our employees. Judith has always been reliable, approachable and knowledgeable. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Judith to others.
HR Manager – Arada Stoves, Dorset
