Why is mental health a workplace issue? The legal case

Disclosing information about your mental health to your employer is not a legal requirement for employees, as they have the right to privacy and so this is usually a personal choice.

However, there are some circumstances where the expectation is that an employee discloses their mental health conditions which could affect their role or may warrant a consideration of adjustments. For example, this includes medical professionals such as doctors, nurses and vets, due to the patient safety element of their roles.

As another example, people who drive any sort of vehicle or transportation for work will be required, although not compelled by law, to disclose certain information to the DVLA or the equivalent governing body in their country of work.

References

UK Government. Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Legislation.gov.uk. 1974. ‌

UK Government. The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Legislation.gov.uk. 1999.

UK Government. Equality act 2010. Legislation.gov.uk. 2010. ‌