Työterveyden

Työterveys is the system of services aimed at protecting and promoting the health and working capacity of employees, preventing work-related illnesses and accidents, and supporting rehabilitation and return to work. In Finnish practice, the term is often used interchangeably with työterveyshuolto, the occupational health care service that is arranged for staff by the employer.

Legal and policy framework: In Finland, most employers are obliged to arrange occupational health services for their personnel, as defined by the Act on Occupational Health Care and related regulations. The arrangement is designed to monitor health in relation to work risks, to promote health in the workplace, and to enable early intervention when health problems affect work ability.

Scope of services: Työterveys provides a combination of medical surveillance, health promotion, and preventive work health measures. Typical components include medical examinations and health monitoring, preventive health counseling, vaccinations when appropriate, and guidance on managing work ability and necessary modifications at work. It also covers ergonomic assessments, risk assessments related to the work environment, and support for rehabilitation and return to work after health-related absences. Mental health support and early identification of work-related hazards are increasingly integrated into normal services.

Organization and providers: Occupational health services are delivered by occupational health care units that may be part of municipal health services, independent private providers, or integrated with larger health organizations. Services are tailored to the employer and employee needs and are provided at the workplace or through off-site clinics, with cooperation between the employer, the employee, and the occupational health professionals.

Impact: The aim is to maintain and improve work ability, reduce sickness absence, and support safe and healthy work life through proactive health management and risk prevention.