Physicals and Occupational Services: Ensuring Safety and Health in the Workplace
Ensuring the safety and health of employees in the workplace is crucial for every employer and business owner. One way to do this effectively is by providing physicals and occupational services. Additionally, certain governmental regulations, such as those in the transportation industry, require certain physicals to be performed regularly. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of physicals, the importance of regulated vs. non-regulated physicals, titer lab testing, TB Transferrin Gold, Hepatitis B, and general health testing to find diabetes and other health issues early in the process before it becomes very expensive to treat.
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Regulated vs. Non-Regulated Physicals
Regulated physicals are those mandated by the government, while non-regulated physicals are those performed by a healthcare provider at the employer’s request. In the transportation industry, for example, regulated physicals, such as DOT Physicals, are required by law to ensure that drivers and other employees operating commercial vehicles are in good health and can perform their job safely. Non-DOT physicals, on the other hand, may be necessary for certain industries to maintain a safe and healthy workplace, such as those in construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing.
DOT Physicals
A DOT Physical is a regulated physical exam required by the Department of Transportation for drivers of commercial motor vehicles. The exam includes a thorough evaluation of a driver’s physical and mental health, as well as a drug and alcohol screening. DOT Physicals must be conducted by certified medical professionals, and the results must comply with DOT regulations. Commercial Motor Vehicle Operators that drive a vehicle weighing 10,000 pounds or more, drive a vehicle that has the ability to carry 15 passengers or more or has a hazardous material placard require a physical. Other DOT safety sensitive positions require physicals as well.
Non-DOT Physicals
Non-DOT physicals are not regulated by any government agency, but they are often required by employers to ensure the safety and well-being of employees. For example, employers in the manufacturing industry may require annual physicals to ensure employees can perform their job safely. Non-DOT physicals can also be beneficial for identifying health issues that may not be apparent to the employee. There are additional physicals available such as a lift test, vision test and respirator physicals. All of these physicals help determine if the employee is fit for duty.
Titer Testing
Titer testing is a blood test that measures the level of antibodies present in the blood. These tests are commonly used to determine if an individual has been previously vaccinated and if they have immunity to a specific disease. In some industries, such as healthcare, titer testing may be required to ensure that employees are immune to certain diseases, such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Tuberculosis, Varicella, MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) and many others.
TB Transferrin Gold
TB Transferrin Gold is a blood test used to determine if an individual has been exposed to tuberculosis (TB). This test can detect TB infection earlier and more accurately than other tests and is commonly used in healthcare and other industries where employees may be at a higher risk of exposure. This test is very popular with healthcare workers and medical students due to only having to go to the lab one time vs. the TB Spot test which requires an initial visit as well as a follow-up visit to determine immunity status.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a highly contagious liver infection that can lead to serious health complications. In some industries, such as healthcare, employees may be required to undergo a series of hepatitis B vaccinations to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them. Employers may also require titer testing to ensure that employees have developed immunity to the virus.
General Health Testing
General health testing is an important part of ensuring the overall health and well-being of employees. These tests can detect health issues early, leading to better treatment outcomes and a healthier workforce. Some common general health tests include cholesterol screening, blood pressure testing, and diabetes screening. Many employers utilize this investment in testing to also manage out of control insurance and healthcare costs.
Physicals and occupational services are critical to ensuring the safety and health of employees in the workplace. Regulated physicals, such as DOT Physicals, are necessary for certain industries to comply with government regulations and maintain a safe working environment. Non-regulated physicals, titer lab testing, TB Transferrin Gold, Hepatitis B, and general health testing are also important to keep employees healthy and identify health issues early. As an employer or business owner, it is essential to understand the different types of physicals and occupational services available to ensure your employees’ safety and well-being while at work. If you need assistance with your Occupational testing program or need to order a drug test, physical or titer near your workplace or your employee’s home contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 (TEST) or press the link below to order a service now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/