Why is genetic information of interest to employers?
As is the case with many diseases, the presence of a genetic condition could make it more difficult to accomplish work related tasks, could require treatments that cause a prolonged absence from work or could cause an employee to become disabled before retirement. An individual’s genetic make-up can increase his susceptibility to developing diseases upon contact with certain substances that are present in the workplace. Finally, like with other medical conditions, genetic conditions can put the security of others in danger (for example, heavy machine operators with epilepsy). An individual’s state of health can limit his/her work capacity, which can have an impact on absenteeism, insurance costs, occupational risks related to the job, and the risks to public safety. Therefore, an employee’s state of health is important for employers to consider. Genetic information can also provide an employer with information relevant to an individual’s present or future state of health.
