The pioneering approach of EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation to promoting occupational health in the workplace has been recognised by the appointment of its Chief Medical Adviser, Dr Sayeed Khan, to a top academic post.
Dr Khan, one of the UK’s leading Occupational Physicians, has been appointed as a Special Professor of Occupational Health in the Institute of Work, Health and Organisations at the University of Nottingham for a period of three years with immediate effect.
The appointment is designed to strengthen the links between the University and those engaged in practical experience in business and industry. Dr Khan has led the EEF’s strategy for occupational health, working with government, trade unions, the health sector and a network of over 40 health and safety specialists based in regional EEF Associations, to provide companies with practical tools to support workplace health.
This work has placed EEF at the forefront of occupational health policies for the workplace in areas such as stress, sickness absence and rehabilitation. It has also allowed EEF to influence occupational health issues arising in a number of government departments and the national arena. For example, he has worked with the University to produce a Work Organisation Assessment Questionnaire which looks at workplace stress in a balanced and positive manner, helping companies avoid the overly negative tones so often associated with this issue.
EEF Director General, Martin Temple, said:
"Occupational health is rising up the business agenda as companies recognise the positive benefits of tackling issues such as sickness absence and rehabilitation. Sayeed's expertise and practical experience has brought huge benefits to companies and added real value to industry’s contribution to the debate on workplace health.”