Ensuring employees’ health is not only a legal obligation, but also a core element of responsible human resources management. In Romania, employees must undergo annual medical examinations to determine their fitness to perform the specific duties of their job. In certain high-risk sectors—such as construction, the chemical industry, or activities involving heavy machinery—medical check-ups may be required more frequently, precisely to prevent accidents and work-related health issues. Fitness-for-work certificates represent the official proof of medical evaluation and are indispensable for managing workplace safety.
Refusal or failure to undergo the annual medical examination can have serious consequences. If an employee does not attend the medical assessment and subsequently suffers a workplace injury, liability may fall on the employer. Current legislation requires employers to ensure that all employees are medically fit for the activities they perform; the absence of a valid fitness certificate may be considered negligence in applying occupational safety and health regulations. In practice, this may lead to civil or criminal liability, sanctions from authorities, and difficulties in handling compensation claims.
To prevent such situations, employers must adopt clear measures: scheduling annual medical check-ups, monitoring deadlines, and communicating their importance to employees. It is recommended to have internal procedures that document attendance at medical examinations and establish clear steps in cases of refusal or non-attendance. In this way, prevention not only protects employees’ health, but also shields the company from legal and financial risks, contributing to a safe and responsible working environment.