By Mannan, Workplace Wellbeing & HR Insights Writer
Understanding Occupational Health Assessments in the UK
Occupational health (OH) assessments are designed to protect both employees and employers. They’re not about catching you out — they’re about ensuring you’re healthy enough to do your job safely and identifying any adjustments that can support you.
In the UK, companies often refer employees to occupational health after sickness absence, stress-related leave, or recurring health issues. It’s part of the employer’s duty of care under Health and Safety law and the Equality Act 2010.
But here’s the truth: what you say during your occupational health assessment can significantly influence the outcome. That’s why understanding what not to say to occupational health UK is just as important as knowing what to say.
Why Honesty Matters — But Oversharing Doesn’t Help
Let’s start with this: you should always be honest, but there’s a fine line between being open and saying something that can be misinterpreted.
Occupational health professionals are independent experts. They don’t make employment decisions — they provide medical opinions to help your employer understand your condition. However, vague or emotionally charged statements can be taken out of context.
For example, saying:
“I can’t cope with my job anymore.”
might sound like you’re giving up completely, even if you meant you’re temporarily struggling due to stress.
Instead, say something like:
“I’ve been finding certain aspects challenging, but I’m willing to discuss adjustments that could help.”
This communicates honesty and a willingness to improve — which makes a big difference.
1. Don’t Say: “It’s None of Your Business”
It’s understandable to feel defensive or private about your health, but remember — occupational health specialists are bound by confidentiality. Their goal is to support you, not invade your privacy.
Saying something like “That’s personal” or “I don’t want to discuss it” can come across as uncooperative. Instead, you can politely explain your boundaries, for example:
“I’m comfortable sharing information relevant to my work and adjustments.”
That way, you maintain professionalism while protecting your personal details.
2. Don’t Say: “My Manager Caused My Health Problems”
It’s tempting to express frustration during your appointment, especially if workplace issues have contributed to your stress. But turning the assessment into a blame session can shift the focus away from your health and support needs.
You can absolutely mention stress triggers or workload issues, but frame them factually — not emotionally.
Instead of: “My boss is the reason I’m ill.”
💬 Try: “I’ve found communication or workload expectations challenging at times.”
This phrasing helps the assessor identify workplace stressors without making the conversation confrontational.
3. Don’t Say: “I’m Totally Fine” When You’re Not
Another common mistake employees make is downplaying their condition out of fear of judgment. Saying you’re “fine” when you’re clearly struggling can backfire — especially if your medical reports or absence records suggest otherwise.
The occupational health team’s goal is to recommend appropriate adjustments, not to penalize you. If you minimize your symptoms, they may conclude you need no support — leaving you without the help you actually need.
Honesty (without exaggeration) is key to getting fair recommendations.
4. Don’t Complain About Company Policies
Remember: occupational health isn’t the same as HR. They can’t change policies or investigate grievances. If you spend the session complaining about company procedures or colleagues, you risk wasting valuable time that could be used to discuss your wellbeing needs.
Focus instead on how workplace factors impact your health and performance — that’s what occupational health reports are based on.
5. Don’t Refuse Reasonable Adjustments
Sometimes, the occupational health advisor may suggest adjustments such as phased return to work, flexible hours, or changes to your workstation.
Refusing these outright — especially without explanation — can appear resistant to recovery. Even if you’re unsure, express openness:
“I’d like to consider that option and discuss how it might work in practice.”
This shows collaboration, which employers and assessors appreciate.
6. Don’t Exaggerate or Fabricate Symptoms
Occupational health specialists are trained to identify inconsistencies. Exaggerating your symptoms might seem like a way to emphasize your struggles, but it can damage your credibility and reduce trust in your report.
Instead, describe your condition clearly and factually — how it affects your job, your energy, and your daily tasks.
Tip: Bring medical documents or fit notes from your GP. It demonstrates transparency and helps the assessor make accurate recommendations.
7. Don’t Skip the Appointment or Go Unprepared
Failing to attend your occupational health assessment or showing up unprepared can send the wrong message to your employer. It may suggest you’re avoiding discussion or not taking your recovery seriously.
Take time beforehand to note:
- Your current symptoms
- Any workplace triggers
- Adjustments that could help you perform better
A few minutes of preparation ensures a confident and constructive conversation.
What You Should Say During Occupational Health Meetings
To balance this guide, here’s what to do instead:
✔Be honest and factual about your symptoms
✔ Explain how your condition affects your work performance
✔ Suggest reasonable adjustments that would help
✔Express willingness to cooperate with your employer
✔ Keep the tone respectful and professional
Conclusion: Be Honest, Professional, and Prepared
When it comes to what not to say to occupational health UK, the key is balance. Be transparent about your health, but communicate professionally. Avoid emotional or defensive language, and focus on how your employer can support your recovery.
Handled well, occupational health assessments can lead to better workplace support, fairer treatment, and a smoother return to work.
Remember — occupational health is there to help you, not to catch you out.
Common Questions About Occupational Health in the UK
- Is occupational health mandatory?
Employers may refer employees for OH assessments if there are concerns about health affecting work, especially after long-term sickness.
2. Can I refuse to see occupational health?
You can refuse, but it might affect how your employer manages your case — particularly for sick pay or workplace adjustments.
3. Who sees my occupational health report?
Usually, only HR and management receive a summary report. Your detailed medical records stay confidential.
4. Can occupational health sign me off work?
No, only your GP can issue a fit note. OH provides recommendations to support your return to work.
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