ESIC has established seven Occupational Disease Center (ODC) till date. This SOP shall be applicable to those ODCs and all health institutions collaborating with them. This SOP is applicable to all staff members, healthcare professionals, and personnel involved in the functioning of ODCs within ESIC. The team includes the Center Head, usually a specialist in Pulmonary Medicine, General Medicine, Community Medicine, or Orthopedics, and an Associate Fellow of Industrial Health. Medical Professionals, a Research Team, and Administrative Staff form the core of the center, each with defined roles and responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities of Occupational Disease Centers (HUB):
Reporting and Documentation: Establish a standardized mechanism for gathering occupational disease data. Maintain comprehensive records of patient care, research, and administrative transactions.
Equip ESIC Health Facilities for Occupational Disease Management: Facilitate training in occupational health for doctors, nurses, and auxiliary personnel. Set up necessary laboratory services for the detection of occupational diseases.
Occupational Disease Prevention: Increase awareness among workers about occupational diseases. Establish a surveillance system for occupational health.
Health Promotion: Conduct screening camps for early detection of occupational diseases. Promote healthy behaviors and proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Promote Safety Culture: Engage with employers and supervisors to advocate for improved workplace safety standards.
Research and Education: Undertake studies and projects on occupational health and safety. Develop a manual for managing occupational diseases and organize training workshops.
Data Sharing Among ODCs and Other Institutions: Maintain a centralized secure online database for data storage and sharing.
Injury and Illness Compensation: Facilitate compensation and assistance for work-related injuries or illnesses.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish a system to assess performance and outcomes, implementing corrective actions based on audits.
Ethical Consideration: Ensure accurate and confidential maintenance of patient records and uphold security protocols.
Key Responsibilities of ESIC Hospitals (SPOKES):
- Establish dedicated occupational health divisions or clinics.
- Collaborate with ODCs in training healthcare professionals in occupational health.
- Ensure essential laboratory services are in place.
- Conduct regular screening camps.
- Develop IEC materials to enhance worker awareness of occupational diseases.
