Work ability varies during one’s career – new publication to support workplaces
A person with partial work ability is someone who has access to part of their work ability and the desire to use it. Work ability varies during one’s career and can be influenced by various factors. Alongside musculoskeletal disorders, mental health disorders are the largest cause of incapacity for work in Finland.
Early care pays off
Any development of the working conditions and work to make them safer, healthier and less stressful supports the work ability of all employees.
Work ability management includes proactive practices that are based on the needs of the workplace and continue throughout the career. The employer’s responsibilities include monitoring work ability and early support in co-operation with occupational health care.
The supervisor’s tasks include identifying early signs of impaired work ability, monitoring coping at work and discussing work ability issues.
“Already observed impairment of work ability often does not have a significant, if any, impact on work performance, as work can be adapted on a case-by-case basis,” says Seija Moilanen, Senior Specialist at the Centre for Occupational Safety.
Practical measures to support work ability
Work arrangements, improvement of ergonomics, more suitable tools and flexible working hours are examples of support measures at the workplace. Even the smallest changes can yield big benefits. Support from the workplace community is also important for employees with partial work ability.
Various social security benefits and services are also available to persons with partial work ability.
“We compiled an infographic for workplaces to use, with direct links to examples of how different operators can support both employees with partial work ability and their employers,” says Moilanen.
The digital publication is suitable for all sectors and is available in Finnish, Swedish and English. The publication was prepared by the Centre for Occupational Safety’s service group.
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