Overview

The abbreviation PAGO stands for ‘Periodiek Arbeids Gezondheidskundig Onderzoek’ or Periodic Occupational Health Examination. This examination is offered by the University of Groningen, in consultation with the consultative body and on the advice of the Health, Safety and Environment Service (AMD), to staff members who according to the risk analysis may run health risks due to the nature of their work. The aim of the examination is to monitor staff health, on the one hand by means of individual advice and on the other hand by providing advice on policy and adaptations to policy on the basis of the examination results of entire groups of employees.

Employers are required by the Working Conditions Act to offer such examinations if the work involves health risks. Staff members may participate on a voluntary basis.

A PAGO usually consists of a questionnaire and a specific medical examination. Any deviating results of examinations are reported individually and at group level. Needless to say, the obligation of medical confidentiality applies to confidential cases. The necessity for a PAGO is discussed and recorded in the annual interview between the faculty and the AMD.