Search Hill Dickinson

Data protection

New ICO guidance on processing information about a worker’s health

Data protection

Data protection: new ICO guidance on processing information about a worker’s health

Extra data protection safeguards apply when an employer processes information about a worker’s physical or mental health because of the sensitive nature of this information. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has recently published new guidance for employers on processing information about a worker’s health. The guidance includes practical advice for employers on:

  • handling sickness and injury records
  • occupational health schemes
  • medical examinations and testing (including testing for drugs and alcohol)
  • genetic testing
  • health monitoring
  • sharing workers’ health information

Although the guidance does not have the same force as a statutory code of practice, the ICO will consider its guidance if it receives a complaint about a failure to comply with data protection law.

Employment law

Getting employment issues right is crucial for any business. By understanding your organisation and marketplace, and providing practical, solutions-based advice, our experts guide HR departments through the employee lifecycle to meet the challenges set by today’s corporate environment.

We also offer an extensive range of events including seminars, focus groups, forums and training workshops to help keep you up to speed and compliant.

Our clients include company owners and managers, HR professionals and in-house lawyers from public and private sector organisations, as well as senior employees and executives. 

Pricing and service information