Skip to content
English
Contact us
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

What Is an Impairment Test and Why Is It Used by HSE Departments?

Preventive control tools to manage operational risks.

An impairment test is a procedure designed to identify whether a person exhibits physiological or cognitive conditions outside the normal range, potentially affecting their ability to perform work safely.

These tests do not aim to detect the cause of the impairment (e.g., fatigue, alcohol, drugs, medication, or illness), but rather the effect on the body, i.e., whether the worker shows signs that compromise their ability to perform critical tasks safely.

Key features of an impairment test

  • Applied quickly and non-invasively.

  • Evaluate involuntary physiological responses (such as the pupillary light reflex in Optovera).

  • Provide immediate and objective results: Fit / Unfit.

  • Integrated into safety protocols to prevent incidents.

Why do HSE departments use them?

Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) teams use these tests as a key preventive measure because they:

  • Help identify risks before accidents occur.

  • Ensure workers are fit to operate equipment, drive vehicles, or carry out critical tasks.

  • Complement other safety measures (PPE, protocols, training).

  • Strengthen the safety culture by showing commitment to worker health.

  • Provide objective documentation for audits and compliance programs.

Conclusion: Impairment tests allow HSE teams to manage risk in real time, reduce the likelihood of serious incidents, and maintain safe operations.