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within the same branch of industry), workers’ health data should be

pooled and analysed in a way that population health changes can be
traced in an early stage. This pooling requires the cooperation of OHS
services and professionals on a regional or even national level.

3.5 Counselling

The occupational health professionals can provide support throughout

the employment pathway, using counselling and reflective listening
skills. This requires appropriate training. The occupational health
team, because of their unique knowledge of the individual worker, the
type of work and the organization, is able to identify where
intervention might be of benefit. Their position of trust provides a
point of contact for the individual who has personal problems that
may affect their ability to work effectively. Their specialist knowledge
of the potential hazards and risks within the workplace enables them
to assess, and give advice in, situations such as:
· Exposure to blood and bodily fluids;
· Health surveillance;
· Bullying and harassment;
· Violence and aggression;
· Sickness and absence assessment;
· Workplace stress;
· Drug and alcohol abuse.

Their ability to work within all levels of the organization, and their
ability to form working partnerships with other professionals, allows
the specialist occupational health team to coordinate multidisciplinary
support for individuals or for organizational groups. Access to
external expert opinion, and where appropriate, referral to treatment or
support agencies may be necessary. In such instances, the
occupational health specialist acts as an essential communication
conduit between the organization and the treating specialist. However,
the prime responsibility for advising about fitness for work should be
retained.