Medical Surveillance
The table below shows which employees must have medical surveillance.
Employee Category | When a Medical Exam is Required |
---|---|
Employees who may be exposed to hazardous substances at or above permissible exposure limits (PELs) or published exposure levels for those substances 30 or more days a year
Employees who wear a respirator for 30 or more days a year or who are required by 1910.134, Subdivision 2/I to wear a respirator. Members of HAZMAT teams |
Before assignment
Every 12 months unless the physician recommends a longer interval (not to exceed 24 months) At termination of employment and reassignment Immediately after reporting symptoms indicating overexposure |
Employees who show symptoms of overexposure to hazardous substances |
As soon as possible after an employee reports symptoms
When a physician determines an examination is necessary |
Key Points About the Medical Examination
- The examination must be performed under the supervision of a licensed physician.
- The physician must have information about the employee's duties, exposure levels, and personal protective equipment.
- The employee must receive a copy of the physician's written findings.
Employers should keep a record of the examination, including the employee's name and the physician's written opinion regarding the employee's medical fitness to do work or to wear a respirator.
Medical Evaluations for Workers Who Use Respirators
Employers should also be aware that there are medical surveillance requirements in other OSHA substance-specific standards that may be applicable for individual sites where these hazardous substances are present (e.g., lead, asbestos, and benzene). These substance- specific standards are included under 29 CFR Part 1910 Subpart Z - Toxic and Hazardous Substances.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-10. Kathy is scheduled to receive an examination as part of the medical surveillance program. What information will a physician need to carry out the medical examination?
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