ABC of Work Related Disorders: ASSESSING FITNESS FOR WORK

Assessments of fitness for work can be important for job applicants, employees, and employers. Unfitness due to an acute illness is normally self evident and uncontentious, but assessing other cases may not be straightforward and can have serious financial and legal implications for those involved. Commercial viability, efficiency, and legal responsibilities lie behind the fitness standards required by employers, and it may be legitimate to discriminate against people with medical conditions on these grounds. Unnecessary discrimination, however, is counterproductive if suitable staff are overlooked and may be costly in cases of unfair dismissal. In addition, the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 makes it illegal for employers of 20 or more staff to discriminate without justification against those with disability as defined by the act.

Fortunately, balancing these often complex socioeconomic and legal issues to achieve a sustainable decision on fitness is not primarily a medical responsibility. Doctors do, however, have responsibilities to assess the relevant facts competently and provide helpful medical advice when required.