Checks Available

• Hearing

  We test hearing to the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) for Management of Noise in the Workplace, Occupational Safety and Health Service. This check takes approximately 10 minutes and requires a reasonably quiet environment. Our mobile clinics, equipped with sound booths, are especially convenient for sites that are noisy or lack adequate space, ensuring the tests are conducted in the appropriate environment for accurate results.

• Lung function

  Lung function is conducted using PC-based spirometers with intuitive diagnostic assessment and reporting capabilities. Spirometry results are assessed against the Lower Level and Upper Level of Normal (LLN and ULN) as well as the associated Z score. The check takes approximately 15 minutes.

• Vision screening

  Tests include near and far acuity (short and long-sightedness), stereopsis (depth perception), colour vision, night vision and peripheral vision, using a Keystone Vision Screener and manual vision charts. The acuity result is compared against the NZ Transport Agency criteria for the applicable licence type. Consideration is also given to the requirements of the employee’s role e.g. Near vision would be important for a role involving fine precision work such as electronics, small components and sharp objects, whereas stereopsis (depth perception) is important for roles involving operating cranes or excavators. 

• Blood pressure

  We typically utilise a manual blood pressure equipment or a compact electronic device. Blood pressure results are broadly compared against NZ Primary Care and World Health Organisation recommendations. It is preferable for participants to wear loose clothing to facilitate the removal of any obstructions and allow us to place the blood pressure cuff above the elbow for accurate measurements.

• BMI (Body Mass Index)

  This is calculated using weight and height measurements. It is a useful assessment tool for identifying risk factors for heart disease and other health-related problems.

• Fatigue assessment

  Life Care uses three fatigue questionnaires; namely, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), and the Occupational Fatigue Exhaustion Recovery Scale (OFER); and collectively, the results allow an evaluation of current fatigue risk within the company and where appropriate, a review of fatigue risk management practices.

  The key element to the fatigue results is to identify the employee’s ability or inability to fully recover, i.e. no longer feel fatigued when they return to work from one shift/ workday to the next.

  Those identified with high-risk (persistent) fatigue will be referred to their GP for recommendations to better manage their fatigue, and to reduce the risk of excessive fatigue and improve worksite safety.

• Cholesterol and blood glucose levels

  This involves a small finger prick for each test, using a lancet to produce a drop of blood. This will then be tested using our small electronic meters and takes 2–3 minutes per test. Fasting is not required for these results.