Men’s reproductive health at work

While it is generally the case that men’s occupational safety and health has received more attention than that of women’s, the reverse is true for reproductive health. It is important that employers also consider men’s reproductive health in the workplace as reproductive hazards can affect men’s fertility, sex drive and performance and their ability to father healthy children. They may also cause cancer of male reproductive organs. Some research suggests that men working at night may have a higher rate of prostrate cancer, for example.

UNISON says men have traditionally been reluctant to discuss these issues and both men and women should be encouraged to discuss any concerns they have regarding their reproductive health with occupational health and their GP.