What Not to Say to Occupational Health UK
What Is Occupational Health?
Occupational Health (OH) in the UK is a specialist service that supports employee well-being at work. It focuses on preventing work-related illness and helping staff return to or remain in employment. It’s not there to fire you it’s there to help.
Table of Contents
Why Are You Referred to Occupational Health?
You may be referred for long-term sickness, recurring absences, health concerns impacting performance, or for adjustments under the Equality Act. It’s not a punishment it’s a support tool.
The Purpose Behind Occupational Health Assessments
Employer vs. Employee Interests
Employers want to ensure you can safely do your job, while you want to feel heard and supported. OH serves as a neutral advisor to bridge this gap.
Legal and Confidential Nature of the Assessment
What you share is mostly confidential. OH professionals follow strict medical ethics. But remember your report goes to your employer, so words matter.
What Not to Say to Occupational Health UK
Let’s be blunt—saying the wrong thing can harm your chances of receiving the support you need or even make you appear dishonest or unfit for work.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Don’t Downplay Symptoms
If you’re struggling, say it clearly. Saying “I’m fine” when you’re clearly not can lead to denial of necessary accommodations.
Don’t Blame Others
Avoid statements like “It’s all my manager’s fault” or “I hate the company.” Focus on facts, not blame.
Avoid Giving Inconsistent Information
If you tell your GP something different from what you tell OH, it could be seen as suspicious or manipulative.
Don’t Say You’re Fine If You’re Not
It might feel brave, but it’s not helpful. Be honest about what you’re experiencing even if it feels uncomfortable.
How Your Words Can Affect Your Report
Impact on Work Adjustments
The OH report shapes whether you get remote work, phased returns, or ergonomic equipment. Say the wrong thing and you might not get the help you actually need.
Risk to Future Employment
If you appear dishonest or unwilling to engage, it can hurt your professional reputation and make HR hesitant to support you in the future.
What Occupational Health Is Actually Looking For
Honesty and Clarity
They want the truth—no sugarcoating, no exaggeration. Be real about your health and how it connects to work.
How Your Condition Affects Your Work
Explain clearly how tasks are impacted. Can you sit for long hours? Are you experiencing anxiety before meetings? They need context.
Preparing for Your Appointment
What to Bring and Review
Bring medical notes, GP letters, and a list of your symptoms. Review your job description and note where you’re struggling.
Key Questions to Expect
Expect questions like:
- How does your condition affect your work?
- Are you receiving treatment?
- What support do you think you need?
What to Say Instead
Be Transparent
Say: “I’ve been having trouble concentrating due to anxiety. It’s affecting my ability to meet deadlines.”
Stick to Facts, Not Emotions
Say: “I’ve had 8 days off due to migraines in the last 3 months,” rather than “Work is killing me.”
Focus on Work-Related Impact
Say: “I struggle with lifting due to back pain,” not “My life is a mess.”
Employee Rights During Occupational Health Assessments
Confidentiality
You have the right to confidentiality—nothing is shared without your consent unless legally required.
Right to See the Report
You can review the OH report before it’s sent to your employer and request amendments if needed.
Right to Disagree with Recommendations
Disagree with the return-to-work plan? You can raise it with HR or escalate it through formal channels.
Role of Occupational Health in Fit Notes & Return to Work
Adjustments & Recommendations
OH can recommend:
- Reduced hours
- Flexible duties
- Temporary redeployment
Collaboration with GP and HR
Their role complements, not replaces, your GP’s advice. They work with HR to create an action plan.
Examples of Bad vs. Good Statements
Phrases That Can Backfire
Bad: “I just hate this job.”
Good: “My current workload is triggering my anxiety symptoms.”
Bad: “There’s nothing wrong with me.”
Good: “I’m better now, but I’d like phased support to avoid relapse.”
Red Flags That Could Trigger Employer Action
Overstated or Understated Issues
Being overly dramatic or too dismissive both raise concerns. Be balanced.
Hostile or Defensive Attitude
Avoid aggression or sarcasm. It makes it harder for OH to advocate for you.
The Do’s and Don’ts Cheat Sheet
Quick Reference Guide for Employees
Do:
- Be honest
- Be factual
- Be respectful
- Share medical documentation
- Focus on solutions
Don’t:
- Lie or exaggerate
- Blame others
- Refuse to engage
- Use emotional outbursts
- Hide symptoms
Real-Life Scenarios and Lessons Learned
Mistakes Others Made
One employee claimed to be fully recovered but then requested sick leave two weeks later. OH flagged this as suspicious.
How They Could Have Handled It Better
They could have said, “I’m improving, but I’m not ready for full duties yet. I’d benefit from a phased return.”
Seeking Support Before the Appointment
Talking to Your Union or HR
Your union rep or HR can brief you on your rights and help you prep for the appointment.
Legal Advice If Needed
If the situation involves potential discrimination or unfair treatment, seek professional advice early.
Conclusion
What Not to Say to Occupational Health UK: Knowing what not to say to occupational health UK is just as important as knowing what to say. The goal isn’t to impress or defend yourself—it’s to clearly present how your health affects your work and what support you need. Speak with purpose, be honest, and remember—this is your opportunity to be heard and get help, not judged.
FAQs
Can Occupational Health get me fired?
What Not to Say to Occupational Health UK No, they make recommendations not employment decisions. But inaccurate or misleading info can hurt your case.
Should I tell Occupational Health everything?
Yes, especially anything affecting your work. Withholding info can delay or block the support you need.
Can I refuse to attend an OH assessment?
What Not to Say to Occupational Health UK Technically yes, but refusal can affect how HR handles your situation and decisions about your role.
Will my employer see everything I say?
Only what’s in the final report—and you get to approve it first.
What if I feel the report is unfair?
What Not to Say to Occupational Health UK Raise your concerns with HR, ask for amendments, or seek advice from your union or a solicitor.
