Knowledge on occupational health check-ups

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　 A routine health check-up usually refers to a physical examination conducted by an employer on workers who are not exposed to occupational disease hazards; it is a standard check-up that focuses on examining the eyes, ears, nose, throat, heart, liver, kidneys, lungs, urinary system, and reproductive organs. If common diseases are detected, employees can receive early treatment, with the aim of protecting their health. 　　However, in accordance with the Law on the Prevention and Control of Occupational Diseases and the Measures for the Supervision and Management of Occupational Health Monitoring by Employers, employers shall conduct health examinations on workers engaged in tasks involving exposure to occupational disease hazards, including pre-employment, during employment, upon leaving the job, and in emergency situations. Occupational health check-ups are different from regular health checks and have the following special features: ● Occupational health check-ups are targeted. For example, pre-employment occupational health examinations are conducted to identify any occupational contraindications for those who will be engaged in jobs involving hazardous conditions. 　　●Occupational health examinations have specificity. Different occupational disease hazards cause varying degrees of health damage. Jobs involving exposure to lead and its inorganic compounds can cause lead poisoning; therefore, blood or urine lead levels should be tested. 　　●Occupational health check-ups are mandatory. To protect the occupational health of workers, it is mandatory for employers to conduct occupational health examinations for those engaged in toxic and hazardous work before they start working, during their employment, and upon leaving their jobs; **the law sets clear provisions regarding this. 　　●Occupational health examinations cannot be conducted at all hospitals; they must be carried out by medical and health institutions approved by the health administrative departments at the provincial level or above, otherwise the examination results will be invalid. This article is from the Occupational Disease Network.