Starting a new job in Australia is exciting, but you also have a responsibility to comply with local workplace laws and regulations. 

One crucial step for overseas visitors is completing the necessary pre employment medical checks to showcase that you are fit for the desired role. These workplace medical assessments are not just about ticking boxes – they are vital for safeguarding the well-being of yourself, colleagues and customers.

From understanding the types of health checks required to expert tips on how to prepare for pre-employment medical examinations, keep reading to find all of the answers in one place. With over 30 years of industry experience, OHVC Insurance is trusted by thousands of foreigners each year to work in Australia with peace of mind.

What is a Pre-Employment Medical?

Before your first day, you need to know what a pre-employment medical check is and the different types of health checks involved. Pre-employment medicals are important health assessments conducted to evaluate a candidate's physical and mental fitness before starting a new job. These workplace medical assessments ensure that individuals are capable of performing their job safely and effectively. They are particularly necessary for high-risk industries – such as mining, construction and healthcare – due to the physical demands and potential hazards are significant.

In Australia, workplace medical assessments are crucial for complying with stringent health and safety regulations (Work Health and Safety Act 2011). These assessments help identify any health issues that could affect job performance, thereby reducing the risk of workplace injuries and accidents.

Everybody benefits from pre-employment medicals. They allow employers to make informed hiring decisions by matching employee capacity with job requirements. Additionally, these workplace medical assessments reduce the likelihood of potential accidents and WorkCover claims. For example, in the transport industry, drivers must undergo vision and hearing tests to meet relevant safety standards. Similarly, workers in the healthcare sector need thorough health checks to prevent the spread of any infectious diseases.

By making sure that employees are healthy and capable, pre-employment medicals contribute to a safer and more efficient workplace. They not only protect the well-being of employees, but also enhance overall productivity and compliance with Australia’s health regulations.

Types of Health Checks Required

Various health checks are essential for pre-employment medicals to guarantee that candidates are fit for their roles, such as:

Medical History and Examination

A comprehensive medical history and physical examination are fundamental components of pre-employment medicals. These assessments provide a baseline for understanding a candidate's overall health and identifying potential risks that could affect their job performance.

A detailed medical history review involves a questionnaire about the candidate's past and current health conditions, surgeries, medications, allergies and family medical history. This information is crucial for several reasons:

• Risk Identification: Understanding previous health issues can help predict potential future problems related to the job.
• Preventive Measures: Early identification of health concerns allows for preventive measures, reducing the likelihood of workplace accidents and health-related absences.
• Job Suitability: Some medical conditions may affect the candidate's ability to perform specific tasks. For example, a history of respiratory issues may be a concern for jobs involving exposure to dust or chemicals.

The physical examination assesses the candidate's current health status through various tests and measurements:

• Basic Measurements: Height, weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) provide a general overview of the candidate's physical health.
• Vital Signs: Blood pressure and pulse measurements help assess cardiovascular health.
• System Checks: Examinations of the respiratory, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and nervous systems are conducted to ensure no underlying issues could impede job performance.
• Vision and Hearing Tests: These are essential for roles that require acute sensory perception, such as driving or operating heavy machinery.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

Drug and alcohol testing is a critical component of pre-work medical examinations. These tests help identify candidates who may pose a risk due to substance use, which is particularly important in safety-sensitive industries.

The two main areas are.

1. Drug Testing: Typically involves urine or blood tests to detect the presence of illicit drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines and opiates. The testing process may include both initial screening and confirmatory testing to confirm the accuracy.
2. Alcohol Testing: Common methods include breathalysers and blood alcohol concentration (BAC) tests. Breathalysers provide immediate results, while BAC tests are more precise and are often used to confirm initial findings.

Drug and alcohol testing is conducted with strict adherence to privacy and confidentiality protocols. The primary purpose of these tests is not to penalise individuals, but so that employees are assigned to roles that match their capabilities and do not pose safety risks. All test results are handled confidentially and access restricted to authorised personnel only. By adopting stringent testing, employers can demonstrate their commitment to employee well-being and protection.

Functional Capacity Evaluation

Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a specialised assessment designed to determine an individual's physical ability to perform specific job tasks. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that employees are physically capable of meeting the demands of their job

The two main objectives of a Functional Capacity Evaluation are:

1. Job-Specific Assessment: FCEs are tailored to the specific physical requirements of a job. They evaluate whether a candidate can safely and effectively perform tasks such as lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling.
2. Risk Mitigation: By identifying any physical limitations or potential health risks before employment, FCEs help prevent workplace injuries and long-term health issues related to job activities.

There are various components of Functional Capacity Evaluations depending on the job or niche, but some common ones are:

• Strength Tests: These tests assess the upper and lower body strength to determine the candidate can handle the physical demands of the job.
• Flexibility and Range of Motion: Evaluations of flexibility and range of motion highlight the candidate’s ability to perform tasks that require bending, reaching and twisting.
• Endurance Tests: These tests measure the candidate's ability to sustain physical activity over time, which is crucial for jobs requiring prolonged exertion.
• Coordination and Balance: Assessments of coordination and balance are essential for roles that involve movement and stability.

Functional Capacity Evaluations are typically performed by certified occupational therapists or physiotherapists who specialise in workplace health. The duration of the evaluation can vary depending on the complexity of the job requirements, but it generally takes between two to four hours. This thorough process ensures that all relevant aspects of the candidate’s physical capabilities are assessed - resulting in a comprehensive overview of their fitness for the role.

Preparing for Your Pre-Employment Medical

Preparing for your pre-employment medical is crucial to securing accurate results and an overall smooth assessment process. Proper preparation leads to a workplace medical assessment that accurately reflects your health status. Being organised can also make the process more efficient and less stressful.

Documentation 

Bring all necessary documents to your appointment to avoid delays and a comprehensive evaluation. Examples may include:

• Photo ID: Valid forms of identification such as a driver’s licence or passport.
• Medical History Records: Any records of past and current health conditions, surgeries and treatments.
• Prescriptions: A list of all medications you are currently taking, including dosages.
• Medical Reports: Any relevant medical reports or test results that could provide additional context for the assessment.

Personal Items 

Bring any personal items that might be necessary for the tests to mitigate any avoidable issues, such as:

• Prescription Glasses or Hearing Aids: Essential for vision and hearing tests.
• Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothes to facilitate physical examinations and tests.
• Footwear: Wear supportive shoes, especially if you will be performing physical tasks during the assessment.

Health & Lifestyle Tips 

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle in the days leading up to your medical can positively influence your results. Some recommendations are:

• Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough sleep the night before your assessment to be well-rested.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Avoid Substances: Refrain from alcohol and caffeine at least 24 hours before the test, as these can affect your results.
• Balanced Diet: Eat a balanced diet so that your body is in optimal condition for the assessment.

Specific Instructions 

Follow any specific instructions provided by the medical facility to guarantee the most accurate results, such as:

• Fasting Requirements: Some blood tests may require fasting. Make sure you follow the guidelines provided to you.
• Avoiding Exercise: For certain tests, you may need to avoid strenuous exercise before the assessment to ensure accurate results.
• Medication Guidelines: Follow any specific instructions regarding your medications, such as taking them at a particular time or bringing them with you to the appointment.

Common FAQs About Pre-Employment Medicals

How Long Do Pre-Employment Medical Results Take?

The timeline for receiving pre-employment medical results typically ranges from a few days to a week. Basic assessments and screenings often provide results within 48 hours, while more comprehensive evaluations may take up to a week. Check with the medical provider conducting your assessment to understand how long pre-employment medical results take.

What is Included in a Pre-Employment Medical Checklist?

A pre-employment medical examination checklist includes a medical history review and physical examination, as well as respiratory, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and nervous system checks. It may also involve vision and hearing tests, drug and alcohol testing, and functional capacity evaluations to assess physical capabilities relevant to the job.