What is Occupational Health Surveillance (OHS) and its treatment?

From the Guidelines

Occupational Health Surveillance (OHS) is a critical component of workplace health management, and its treatment involves a multifaceted approach to prevent and manage work-related illnesses and injuries, with a focus on early intervention and rehabilitation to minimize morbidity, mortality, and improve quality of life. In the context of OHS, treatment strategies are tailored to address specific occupational hazards and health risks, and may include measures such as workplace modifications, employee education and training, and medical surveillance programs. For patients with OHS, particularly those with acute hypercapnic respiratory failure, pressure controlled mechanical ventilation (MV) is recommended initially, along with high PEEP settings to recruit collapsed lung units and correct hypoxaemia, as well as forced diuresis to manage fluid overload 1. Key aspects of OHS treatment include:

• Early identification and reporting of work-related health issues
• Implementation of control measures to prevent exposure to occupational hazards
• Provision of personal protective equipment and training on its use
• Regular health monitoring and surveillance to detect early signs of work-related illness or injury
• Rehabilitation and return-to-work programs to support employees with work-related health conditions
• Collaboration with occupational health professionals to develop and implement effective OHS strategies. In clinical practice, the treatment of OHS should prioritize a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach, incorporating the latest evidence-based guidelines and recommendations, such as those outlined in the BTS/ICS guideline for the ventilatory management of acute hypercapnic respiratory failure in adults 1.

From the Research

Definition of Occupational Health Surveillance (OHS)

• Occupational Health Surveillance (OHS) refers to the systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of data to identify and control occupational hazards and diseases 2.

Treatment of Occupational Health Issues

• The treatment of occupational health issues, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), can involve various interventions, including:
  • Cabergoline, a dopamine agonist, which has been shown to reduce the risk of OHSS in high-risk women [(3,4)].
  • Calcium gluconate infusion, which has been found to be as effective as cabergoline in preventing OHSS 4.
  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist, which has been shown to be an effective outpatient treatment for early OHSS 5.
  • Paracentesis of ascitic fluid, which can be an effective treatment for severe OHSS 6.

Management of Occupational Health

• The management of occupational health involves a range of strategies, including:
  • Risk assessment and management at the organizational level 2.
  • Implementation of OHSM systems and standards 2.
  • Promotion of safety culture and atmosphere 2.
  • Management of specific diseases and health issues, such as work-related musculoskeletal disorders and mental health 2.