Phoon W H, Chan O Y
Department of Industrial Health, ministry of Labour, Singapore.
J Soc Occup Med. 1990 Summer;40(2):55-8. doi: 10.1093/occmed/40.2.55.
This paper describes the system of statutory medical examinations introduced in Singapore since 1985 and the role of designated factory doctors, as well as the progress of the system, problems and issues involved. The basic objective of the system is to ensure that workers in special risk occupations are fit for such work. Factory workers exposed to any of 14 prescribed hazards must undergo specific medical examinations and tests by designated factory doctors who are trained and registered with the Labour Ministry. Abnormal work-related cases are notified to the Ministry for further investigation. Currently there are 330 designated factory doctors and each year, over 38,000 workers are examined, 88 per cent for noise exposure. The system provides opportunities for early detection of both occupational and non work-related abnormalities, individual counselling and timely preventive action. It also complements industrial hygiene monitoring activities in the evaluation of health hazards and promotes self-regulation. To enhance the effectiveness of the system, the doctors must be properly trained and some degree of supervision is needed, particularly with regard to accuracy and interpretation of laboratory results, emphasis on counselling and re-orientation and updating of knowledge.
本文介绍了新加坡自1985年起推行的法定医学检查制度、指定工厂医生的职责，以及该制度的进展、所涉及的问题。该制度的基本目标是确保从事特殊风险职业的工人适合此类工作。接触14种规定危害中任何一种的工厂工人必须接受由经劳动部培训并注册的指定工厂医生进行的特定医学检查和测试。与工作相关的异常情况会通报给劳动部作进一步调查。目前有330名指定工厂医生，每年有超过38000名工人接受检查，其中88%是因接触噪音接受检查。该制度为早期发现职业性和非工作相关异常情况、提供个人咨询以及及时采取预防措施提供了机会。它还在健康危害评估方面补充了工业卫生监测活动，并促进自我监管。为提高该制度的有效性，医生必须接受适当培训，并且需要一定程度的监督，特别是在实验室结果的准确性和解读、对咨询的重视以及知识的重新定位和更新方面。
