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Occupational health issues affecting the pharmaceutical sales force.
1Occupational Health Service, Pfizer Ltd, Sandwich, Kent CT13 9NJ, UK. gillian_harris@sandwich.pfizer.com
Occupational Medicine (Oxford, England)
|September 30, 2003
Summary
Pharmaceutical sales representatives face significant occupational health risks, including driving hazards, workplace violence, stress, and ergonomic issues. Targeted health strategies are needed to mitigate these risks.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Pharmaceutical Industry Workforce
Background:
- The pharmaceutical sales force is a distinct occupational group with unique work characteristics.
- Peripatetic roles, isolation, and extensive travel present specific occupational health risks.
- Psychosocial and ergonomic hazards are inherent to the tasks performed by sales representatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review occupational risks for pharmaceutical sales personnel.
- To evaluate the evidence supporting preventive interventions for this workforce.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature review was conducted.
- The review encompassed studies published between 1990 and 2003.
Main Results:
- Key occupational hazards identified include risks associated with business driving.
- Workplace violence, stress, and ergonomic challenges are significant concerns.
- Mobile phone use was also identified as a notable hazard.
Conclusions:
- Developing tailored health management strategies is crucial for this occupational group.
- Specific interventions are necessary to address the unique occupational health needs of pharmaceutical sales representatives.
- Effective prevention and management of health issues require dedicated strategies.