Occupational health provision and health surveillance in the semiconductor industry

Abstract

Aims: To identify the nature of occupational health provision in UK semiconductor-manufacturing plants. To identify the level of industry compliance with legal health surveillance requirements. Method: A national inspection programme was carried out by Health & Safety Executive inspectors using a developed protocol. Results: A wide range of occupational health provision was identified from none to use of an accredited specialist. The majority of work was of a reactive nature even where there was specialist occupational health input. Seven companies were identified as not meeting legal compliance and one as having unacceptable compliance for health surveillance. Conclusions: The spectrum of occupational health provision was very wide. Where health surveillance was provided, it was poorly targeted with limited interpretation and feedback to management. © 2006 Oxford University Press.