scope:

Introduction

The following guidance has been developed to assist managers in deciding if an individual can undertake their duties when they report to work with:

• New medication to treat symptoms or a medical condition.

• Change of dose of known medication.

When making your decision, you should consider the following:

• The medication being taken

• The underlying medical condition it treats and their symptoms.

• The employee's subjective view of whether they feel able to carry out their full duties

Employee Responsibilities

Any employee in a safety critical role must declare any new medication to his manager (this includes any over-the-counter or herbal medication).

Any medication has the potential to cause side-effects; therefore employees must not rely on their judgement about the risks and implications of a medication.

All employees undertaking safety critical work should advise their medical practitioner (GP or specialist) that they undertake such work when any prescription is given to them.

Any employee experiencing ill health or side-effects which may jeopardize safety at work must inform their manager as soon as possible.