At Pathways Occupational Health, we understand the high-risk nature of construction and demolition work. From exposure to hazardous materials like asbestos, to long-term tool usage leading to HAVS (Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome), and roles that involve safety-critical decisions, ensuring your workforce is medically fit is not only best practice, it’s a legal requirement.
We provide specialist occupational health services that keep your teams safe, healthy, and fully compliant with HSE regulations.
With our in-depth experience, including over 50 years in high-demand industrial settings like British Steel, we’re trusted by construction and demolition companies across the UK.
Asbestos Medicals: Compliance & Early Detection
Any worker exposed to asbestos during demolition or refurbishment must undergo regular asbestos medical examinations in line with HSE Regulation 22 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
- Initial medical within two years of exposure starting
- Licensed work requires re-assessment every 2 years
- Non-licensed asbestos work needs follow-ups every 3 years
- Conducted by HSE-appointed physicians, including spirometry, chest health checks, and lifestyle advice
We identify early signs of respiratory disease and educate workers about the risks of asbestos exposure, especially when combined with smoking. Medical certificates are issued and securely recorded for full traceability and compliance.
Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) Medicals
Using vibrating tools such as jackhammers, concrete breakers, or drills over time can lead to HAVS, which causes:
- Tingling and numbness in fingers
- Loss of grip strength
- White finger attacks (vibration white finger)
- Muscle fatigue and joint pain
Under The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, employers must assess, monitor, and medically examine employees exposed to hand-arm vibration. Our staged HAVS assessments detect symptoms early, categorise risk levels (from Stage 0 to Stage 3), and support you with ongoing health surveillance to reduce long-term injury claims and improve worker wellbeing.
Safety-Critical Medicals for High-Risk Roles
Safety-Critical Medicals (SCMs) are essential for workers whose health could impact not only their safety but that of others on site. This includes:
- Machine operators
- Scaffolders
- Crane drivers
- Plant operators
- High-risk demolition workers
These comprehensive medicals follow HSE guidance and include:
- Vision testing
- Blood pressure and cardiovascular checks
- Respiratory and musculoskeletal assessments
- Mental health screening
- Drug and alcohol testing (if requested)
Each assessment is tailored to the demands of the worker’s role, ensuring your company is fully compliant with CDM Regulations and other legislative requirements.
Why Choose Pathways Occupational Health?
Founded in 2011, Pathways was built on decades of experience in heavy industry and occupational safety. We’ve grown into one of the UK’s most respected providers of construction-specific occupational health services, with clients spanning demolition, civil engineering, house building, and more.
What Sets Us Apart:
- HSE-approved physicians and qualified technicians
- Nationwide coverage with fast-response mobile units
- On-site and clinic-based medicals for minimal downtime
- Fast turnaround of results and fit-for-work certification
- Digital recordkeeping to ensure easy audit readiness
- Flexible scheduling to fit your project timelines
- Bespoke health surveillance programs for high-risk environments
Support That Goes Beyond Compliance
We don’t just tick boxes. At Pathways, we focus on:
- Improving long-term employee health
- Reducing claims and absenteeism
- Boosting site productivity and morale
- Helping your business attract and retain skilled workers
Through our partnerships with expert specialists, such as cardiologists, psychotherapists, and physiotherapists, we also support wider workforce well-being initiatives and return-to-work planning.
Book Your Medicals Today
Whether you’re tendering for a new contract, onboarding subcontractors, or meeting insurance requirements, Pathways Occupational Health can help you meet your obligations quickly, efficiently, and affordably.
Contact us today to arrange a medical for your workforce.
Serving all areas across the North East and UK-wide.