Environment Health and Safety Division of SKMC performs pre-employment medical tests

SKMC is owned and operated by SEHA, the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company, which is responsible for the curative activities of all the public hospitals and clinics in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

For several years, pre-employment medical exams were performed at Al Ettihad Center, one of SKMC's healthcare centers. This recent initiative of performing these medical examinations in the Outpatient Specialty Clinics building starting from 23 August 2009 is a strategic development for the Environment Heath & Safety division.

Pre-employment medical exams at the new location will be performed by physicians who are trained and specialized in occupational medicine and are able to assess individuals against physical demands of the job.

Pre employment medical exams are mandatory for everyone seeking new employment in several organizations in Abu Dhabi to ensure that they are medically fit to perform the task required in the job.

These medicals mostly consist of a physical examination done by a trained physician, laboratory tests, and chest X-ray.

In addition to pre-employment medical exams, the division of Environmental Heath & Safety offers periodic medical exams, age related medicals, fitness for work medical assessment, disability assessments, safety consultation for organizations in addition to consulting, auditing and training organizations on occupational/Industrial hygiene.

Dr. Scott Strong, CEO of SKMC, stated:

"Initiating these services at SKMC is part of our plan to provide a state-of-the-art comprehensive package of health, safety and environmental services to all industries and establishments in Abu Dhabi as we strive to make the UAE a healthier, safer, and environmentally friendly place to live in."

"It demonstrates the commitment of SEHA and SKMC in providing advanced occupational medical care that meets internationally recognized standards of excellence," Dr. Strong said.

Dr. Samer Ellahham, Chief Quality Officer stated, "We would like to see more focus on health and safety from organizations and institutions both in healthcare and other industries. Through Environment Health & Safety consultation services, we can help the employees and employers to work together and make the work environment of Abu Dhabi safe for all. Safety and Quality is everyone's responsibility and we can facilitate in improving them."

Dr. Moazzam Zaidi, Lead Physician for Environment Health and Safety said, "Companies should comply with present and future legal requirements and guidelines provided by Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HAAD) and Abu Dhabi health Services Company - SEHA here in Abu Dhabi. Our division's role would be to assist and guide the requesting organization, when requested. We have a team of certified individuals which can provide internationally recognized environmental health and safety services."

"We can also assist institutions in achieving international recognition (e.g., JCI, ISO) establishing emergency preparedness programs and help them comply with legal requirements of the emirates," he added.