The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has published new employment practices and data protection guidance on handling information about workers’ health.
Health information is some of the most sensitive personal information that employers handle about their workers – so it’s important to get it right.
The new detailed information about workers’ health guidance will support and empower employers to understand how they can comply with their data protection obligations when they’re collecting and using workers’ health information.
The guidance will look at data protection responsibilities and consider more specific personal information handling scenarios. It also includes practical advice on:
- handling sickness and injury records;
- occupational health schemes;
- medical examinations and testing, including for drugs and alcohol;
- genetic testing;
- health monitoring; and
- sharing workers’ information.
There are also checklists to help employers consider their various data protection considerations.
This provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out all of the facts, the legal arguments presented and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, we cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.
