Alert and sentinel systems: THOR, United Kingdom

Part of a series of five in-depth studies of Alert and Sentinel approaches for detecting, monitoring and preventing new work-related diseases (WRDs), this article looks at the THOR network in the United Kingdom.

Beside the general THOR, specific THOR schemes capture WRDs such as respiratory, skin or infectious diseases and THOR-EXTRA is specifically designed to report suspicions of new WRDs. THOR has developed innovative features to simplify the reporting while improving data quality and to motivate physicians to report by offering opportunities for continuous professional development through a web-based platform. Its mechanisms for two-way communication with companies and OSH authorities secures its strong input into targeted, evidence-based policy and prevention.

Find out how THOR is used to inform policy-makers of new and emerging occupational health risks.