Workers in remote area: The strategic role of Occupational Health Dept. in Saipem

Introduction
Saipem, with more than 40,000 employees, and the Oil Companies involved in activities that are carried out in remote, inhospitable areas must ensure the safety and guarantee the health conditions of workers in relation to the risk factors connected to both the job as well as to the environment in which it is performed.

Methods
In such situations, Occupational Health addresses both the health aspects of the workplace and of the community, and is the pivot around which revolves the health-care support of workers employed out of the respective countries of origin in the sense of protection and enhancement of health. The occupational physician is called upon to assess the fitness of workers for jobs that are based in remote areas. “This is why the occupational health physician has to observe an important issue: Occupational Health Program.
- Pre-employment accurate medical examination is performed to assess the worker’s fitness against the risks related to geographical area and occupational activities to prevent illness and/or injury.
- Before departure the worker is informed through a counselling program about local risks and will get the protective means (vaccination,etc) he will need.
- Health surveillance program is hold during the period of stay.
- End employment medical examination assess the worker’s fitness.
- Health promotion program include formation and information about lifestyle, company’s policies

Results
In 2009/2010, 9600 medical fitness certificate were issued. 76 workers were no fit for work and 7046 fit with prescriptions (limitation for malaria area, no activity off-shore, periodical control for glycaemia, etc.)

Discussion
Full implementation of prevention programs and Health management as described brings an added value to both the employee and company and assures company’s competitive advantage on the market.