Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Pros Of Genetic Testing In The Workplace

Genetic testing can be performed with a blood test.


Genetic testing in the workplace is an issue of debate among politicians, chief executive officers and scientists. Genetic testing involves examining a person's genomes, which are the foundation of our physical bodies, for things like the likelihood of inherited diseases and disorders. The Genetic Home Reference website explains that "the results of a genetic test can confirm or rule out a suspected genetic condition or help determine a person's chance of developing or passing on a genetic disorder." There are many benefits to genetic testing in the workplace.


Preventing Workplace Injury


Genetic testing in the workplace has the potential to help decrease workplace injury. By testing a worker's predisposition to certain injuries, an employer can help prevent them. For example, if genetic testing reveals that a worker is predisposed to a specific back injury caused by sitting for long periods of time, the employer may request that standing and stretching breaks be required to prevent the injury. Preventing these types of injuries benefit the employer as well as employees.


Improved Productivity


If an employer opts to test potential workers, the tests may reveal information about a worker's ability to perform certain tasks. Knowing this, employers may choose to turn down an applicant based on the genetic tests. While this is not necessarily a benefit to the worker or applicant, it can increase a company's productivity by only hiring the cream of the crop.


Promotions and Abilities


If a company tests its employees, this can benefit both employer and employee. If genetic testing reveals a predisposition to a specific physical or intellectual ability, he or she may receive promotions or be placed in specific lines of work that take advantage of these natural abilities. The company would benefit by its workers being in positions that come naturally the them.







Tags: Genetic testing, genetic testing, genetic testing reveals, testing reveals, testing workplace