Correctional officers face significant occupational hazards, with nonfatal work-related injuries occurring at a rate of 491 per 10,000 full-time workers, substantially higher than the average across all professions.
From exposure to infectious diseases to high-stress situations, employees in correctional facilities encounter daily challenges that can impact their health and safety. Implementing robust occupational health services is essential to mitigate these risks, ensuring a safer and more productive workplace.
What Is Occupational Health in Correctional Facilities?
Occupational health focuses on maintaining and promoting workers’ physical and mental well-being by preventing illness and injury, addressing workplace hazards, and fostering a culture of safety. In correctional settings, where unique challenges are prevalent, comprehensive occupational health services serve as a critical line of defense to protect staff and maintain operational efficiency.
Key Occupational Services for Jail Employees
Employee screening and regular occupational health assessments are key to identifying potential health issues early and ensuring employees are fit for their roles. In correctional facilities, infectious disease control is another critical focus area. In 2023, 3.6% of all U.S. TB cases for persons aged over 15 were residents of correctional facilities. High-risk environments like jails require preventive measures such as TB testing, vaccination programs, and quick responses to outbreaks to protect both staff and inmates.
Additional services like physical abilities tests (PATs) and physical exams are often required to confirm that staff can meet the physical demands of their roles. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are essential for those exposed to respiratory hazards, ensuring lung health is monitored and maintained. Additionally, drug and alcohol testing helps maintain a safe and compliant workplace by identifying and addressing potential substance use issues before they impact operations.
Mental health support is equally important in correctional facilities, as the demanding nature of the work can lead to significant emotional strain. In addition to occupational health services, resources like counseling programs, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and other mental health tools play a critical role in supporting employee well-being.
Why Invest in Occupational Health Services?
A well-implemented occupational health program benefits both employees and your organization. Healthy employees are less likely to take time off, leading to lower absenteeism and more consistent staffing levels.
With fewer health-related disruptions, productivity naturally improves, and a workforce that feels supported can focus on their responsibilities more effectively. Prioritizing occupational health also ensures compliance with relevant laws and standards, reducing the risk of penalties while reinforcing organizational integrity. Importantly, when employees feel that their health and safety are valued, workplace morale improves, creating a more positive and engaged environment.
Streamlining Occupational Health Management with Mobile Health
Managing occupational health services in a correctional setting can be complex, but Mobile Health provides tools to make it simpler and more efficient. Our Client Portal allows employers to oversee screenings and compliance exams with ease. Scheduling appointments, accessing real-time test results, and integrating with existing HR systems are all straightforward tasks within this platform. Features like role-based access and HIPAA-compliant data handling ensure secure, seamless workflows that save time and reduce administrative burdens.
Mobile Health’s Patient Portal empowers candidates and employees to schedule their pre-employment and compliance exams with ease. They can select times and locations that suit them best. With exam packages tailored to organizational requirements and over 6,500 locations offering next-day appointments, the process becomes streamlined for employees and HR teams alike.
A Safer, Healthier Workplace
By integrating comprehensive occupational health services and leveraging Mobile Health’s tools, correctional facilities can protect their staff while enhancing operational efficiency. When employees feel supported, they’re better equipped to handle the challenges of their roles, creating a safer and more productive environment. Prioritizing staff well-being benefits everyone—from the employees themselves to the inmates they oversee and the broader community they serve.
Investing in occupational health is an investment in the strength and sustainability of your workforce. Contact Mobile Health to take the first step toward a healthier, safer workplace.
