Why no employer in France can operate without an occupational health service

Broad obligations egarding workplace health and safety

The French Labour Code stipulates that every employer must take measures to protect the physical and mental health of employees. This includes:

• Risk prevention;

• Information and training;

• Medical monitoring of employees;

• Adjustment of workstations where necessary.

Joining a certified occupational health service is part of this general obligation. The service plays a preventative, not a curative, role.

What does an occupational health service do?

This service supports employers in three key areas:

1. Medical monitoring of employees

Every employee must see the occupational doctor within the first three months of employment. The aim of this consultation is both preventive and informative. After this, regular check-ups follow:

• Every 2 to 3 years for high-risk roles;

• Every 5 years for non-risk roles;

• Additional consultations upon return from long absences due to illness, accident, or maternity leave.

2. Risk prevention and workstation analysis

The occupational health service helps assess working conditions and can advise on ergonomics, exposure to noise or chemicals, psychosocial risks, etc. They also assist in drafting and updating the mandatory risk assessment document (Document Unique d’Évaluation des Risques Professionnels – DUERP).

3. Reintegration and advice

Finally, the occupational health service supports reintegration after illness or an accident. This may include analysing and proposing adjustments to workstations or workflows. Employers can also consult the service for advice on preventing workplace accidents or occupational diseases.

Possible sanctions

For all businesses operating in France – including foreign companies with employees on French soil – compliance is not only a legal obligation but also an investment in employee wellbeing and business continuity.

Failure to affiliate with an occupational health service may result in:

• Criminal sanctions;

• Liability in the event of work-related accidents or occupational diseases;

• Legal proceedings initiated by employees.

How to stay compliant

Ensure a compliant and safe work environment with these core actions:

• Check that your business is affiliated with an approved occupational health service.

• Schedule mandatory medical check-ups in a timely manner.

• Maintain an up-to-date DUERP.

Operating in France? Vandelanotte France can assist you

Our specialists guide you through every step: from joining a health service to proper follow-up and documentation. Don’t hesitate to contact us for an efficient and compliant approach.