A Safety Critical Assessment—sometimes referred to as a Safety Critical Medical—is a specialist occupational health evaluation designed to determine whether an individual is physically, mentally, and medically fit to carry out a safety‑critical role without posing a risk to themselves, colleagues, or the public.
These assessments are not general health checks. They are role‑specific medical evaluations focused on the essential capabilities required to perform high‑risk jobs safely.
The key principle is that a sudden health issue—such as loss of consciousness, impaired vision, hearing problems, or reduced lung function—could lead to a serious accident, injury, or fatality.
While not every safety‑critical role is legally defined, the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015) require employers to ensure workers are fit for the duties they perform. Many employers choose to implement these assessments as part of their risk management and health surveillance programmes to demonstrate compliance and reduce liability.
When they are required:
Before employment to confirm fitness for a safety‑critical position.
At regular intervals (often annually or every three years) depending on the risk level of the role and age of the employee.
Following illness or injury that could impact ability to perform safety‑critical tasks.
By identifying potential medical issues early, Safety Critical Assessments protect lives, prevent workplace accidents, and maintain legal compliance, making them an essential element of modern occupational health strategy.
A safety critical assessment is a medical evaluation to confirm a worker is fit to safely perform high‑risk roles without endangering themselves or others.
Any worker whose job could put them or others at serious risk if they became suddenly unwell — for example, plant operators, scaffolders, drivers, or those working at height.
Typically every one to three years, depending on role, age, and employer policy. Some high‑risk roles require annual reassessment.
It includes vision and hearing checks, lung function testing, blood pressure, mobility assessments, mental health screening, and sometimes drug and alcohol testing.
Most assessments take 30–60 minutes, depending on the role and the number of required tests.
You may be temporarily restricted from duties, referred for medical advice, or reassessed after treatment or adjustments to your work tasks.
While not always law, employers have a duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act and CDM 2015 to ensure workers in high‑risk roles are fit for duty.
Yes. Many occupational health providers offer onsite assessments to minimise disruption and keep workers available for shifts.
Telephone
Email
