Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver, and it is contracted when the virus enters an individual’s bloodstream, for example through an open wound, cut, or scratch from a contaminated needle. It can remain active on surfaces for up to a week, making it highly contagious. The hepatitis B vaccine is a critical component in preventing the infection, especially for those at occupational risk. Employers should provide hepatitis B vaccines for workers considered at risk, such as healthcare workers, laboratory staff, and emergency responders.
In the UK, while the general risk remains low, hepatitis B vaccinations are recommended for those working where exposure to blood or other body fluids may occur. Employers should conduct regular risk assessments to identify roles and tasks that pose a risk of exposure to hepatitis B and ensure that these vaccinations are made available and easily accessible. It is a health clearance requirement for NHS healthcare workers and other jobs that involve close contact with infected bodily fluids. Some laboratory staff, morticians, embalmers, and prison workers may also be advised to have the hepatitis B vaccine.
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious virus that spreads quickly and can cause disruptions in the workplace through sickness absence and impaired employee performance. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends the strains of influenza to be included in vaccination each year. For this reason, influenza vaccinations, or flu vaccinations, tend to be the most common choice for workplace vaccinations as they offer the best protection against the flu.
The simplest way to prevent the spread of the flu in the workplace is to provide workers with on-site flu vaccinations. Workplace flu vaccinations are suitable for businesses of all sizes and industries, ultimately ensuring a healthier workforce. While individuals who receive the influenza vaccine may still get the flu, their symptoms are likely to be milder and may not last as long. Another benefit of the vaccine is the reduced risk of spreading the flu to others.
Tetanus is a serious but rare infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. There is a risk of tetanus if soil or manure containing bacteria gets into a wound, such as a bite, burn, or scratch. Once inside, it multiplies and releases a neurotoxin that causes symptoms such as muscle spasms and stiffness, particularly in the neck, face, and jaw. The best way to avoid getting tetanus is to make sure you’re fully vaccinated against it.
While the tetanus bacterium is common, effective immunisation means that the risk of infection is rare for workers in the UK. However, industries such as construction are considered high risk, as tetanus usually occurs when a cut or wound is contaminated. Construction workers and similar industries would benefit from DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, and polio) vaccination programmes to ensure all employees on-site are protected.
One of the most important aspects of corporate travel is ensuring that employees are up to date with the necessary travel vaccinations. Different countries have different health risks, and travel vaccines help safeguard against illnesses that could potentially ruin a trip. Given the variety of vaccines required depending on the destination, it’s important to consult an occupational health services team that specialises in travel vaccines for businesses. At Choose Occupational Health, we offer a broad range of travel vaccinations to ensure your workforce is fit for travel.
As an employer, it is part of your duty of care to employees travelling overseas for business to inform them of the health risks for their trip and take steps to help protect them. Individuals who travel abroad for business may need travel vaccinations to protect themselves from diseases, particularly frequent or long-term travellers to the same destination. Additionally, some countries have strict vaccination requirements for entry, and failure to meet these can result in being denied entry, making it crucial for corporate travellers to be up to date on necessary vaccinations well in advance of their trips.
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers have a legal duty to protect the health of their employees. Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), employers have a duty to assess the risk of infection for employees and others affected by their work. When the risk is known, employers must take suitable precautions to protect employee health.
As a leading occupational health services provider, Choose Occupational Health offers a wide range of workplace vaccinations, including hepatitis B, influenza, tetanus, and travel vaccinations. Our experienced occupational health advisors deliver cost-effective services designed to meet the needs of your business.
If your business requires workplace vaccinations or occupational health vaccinations, speak to our team at Choose Occupational Health today by calling 01228 513687.
