When it comes to hiring, most HR teams focus on finding the right skills, experience, and attitude of a person, but what about the right level of health and fitness for the job? Pre-employment medicals are one of the simplest, most effective ways to make sure your people are set up for success before they even start. They’re not just about ticking a compliance box, they are about protecting your business, team and future. Here are five key reasons why adding pre-employment medicals to your HR plan can make a real difference. Ensure candidates are fit for the role Every job has its physical and mental demands. A pre-employment medical helps make sure the person you’re hiring can safely meet those requirements. Whether it’s a role that involves heavy lifting, long hours on the road, or detailed office work that relies on good vision and focus, knowing your candidate’s capabilities upfront helps you place them in the right position from day one. It’s a proactive step that benefits both employer and employee, everyone wants to start their new role confident they can perform it safely and to a business’s standards. Reduce workplace injuries & compensation claims Workplace injuries can be costly, not just financially, but in downtime, morale, and team disruption. By identifying potential health risks early, employers can reduce the likelihood of incidents down the track. A simple assessment can reveal issues like limited mobility, hearing problems or vision challenges, or pre-existing conditions that could increase the chance of injury. Knowing this information before hiring allows you to make informed decisions, adjust workloads if needed, or even offer extra support to keep people safe. Improve retention & productivity Good hiring is about long-term fit, not just filling a vacancy. When you ensure a candidate is physically and mentally suited to a job, you’re setting them up for success and that leads to better performance, fewer sick days, and higher retention. Employees who feel their wellbeing is prioritised are more likely to stay engaged and loyal. A small investment in screening can prevent the much bigger cost of replacing and retraining staff later down the track, minimising costs of training and hiring as well. Strengthen compliance & duty of care Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe working environment, and that begins at the hiring stage. Pre-employment medicals are a clear way to demonstrate you’re meeting your duty of care. They also help HR teams maintain proper documentation, giving peace of mind that hiring decisions align with workplace health and safety requirements. It’s about being proactive, not reactive and preventing problems rather than managing them later. Build a culture of health & wellbeing Introducing medicals as part of your HR process sends a clear message within the business, health and safety matters here. It tells new employees that their wellbeing is something that is considered early in the hiring stage, and it’s built into the way the organisation operates. That kind of culture has ripple effects. It builds trust, encourages open conversations about health and helps create workplaces where people feel valued, supported, and motivated to do their best work. The takeaway Adding pre-employment medicals to your HR plan is more than a formality, it’s a smart investment in your people and your business. A healthy start leads to safer, stronger, and more productive workplaces.