What is a Pulmonary Function Test? Why it Matters
A Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is an essential medical procedure that measures how well your lungs work. It helps assess lung capacity, airflow, and the efficiency of oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange. These tests are critical for diagnosing and managing respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other lung-related disorders. But their importance extends far beyond medical diagnoses—they’re a key component in ensuring employee safety in several professions.
For employers, particularly those in fields that expose workers to potential respiratory hazards, PFTs are an essential part of their workplace health and safety protocols. Employees handling hazardous substances or wearing respirators (such as in the manufacturing, construction, or chemical industries) often require PFTs to verify their lung health and compatibility with job demands. If you’re an HR professional or safety manager, understanding PFTs is crucial for ensuring compliance with occupational health standards and protecting your workforce.
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John L gave us a 5 star google rating and said, From the beginning, Brenda has been a wealth of knowledge and has been very patient explaining aspects of the DOT random drug testing program. I called multiple times to clarify our responsibility and what WSI could do to help and Brenda has been cheerful and eager to help us get started. Phil the CEO of the company also provided guidance and was knowledgeable and was very pleasant throughout. I’m glad to have found WSI, this is truly a customer first company.
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Need a Customer First Company to manage your employee screening program or to order a drug screen or other employee screening service today? Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/
Need to order a drug test or other employee screening service today? Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/
Why Perform a Pulmonary Function Test?
There are various reasons employers would require a Pulmonary Function Test, including:
- Ensuring Respiratory Health in Hazardous Environments
For industries with exposure to harmful substances, PFTs help identify employees at risk of respiratory complications. This proactive approach prevents health issues down the line and reduces liability.
- Compliance with OSHA Regulations
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates PFTs for workers using respirators. Ensuring compliance avoids regulatory fines and protects worker safety.
- Monitoring Employee Health
Regular PFTs help track an employee’s lung function over time, creating a baseline and enabling early diagnosis of occupational lung diseases.
- Pre-Employment Checks
PFTs are often included in pre-employment physicals to determine if candidates are fit to handle the environmental demands of the role.
At Workplace Screening Intelligence, we streamline the process for employers by providing electronic ordering of PFTs and tracking their progress so you’ll always know when your employee completes testing.
What Other Physicals Do You Offer?
Besides Pulmonary Function Tests, many workplaces require additional physicals and screenings for compliance and safety. Here’s a breakdown of common physicals provided by Workplace Screening Intelligence:
1. Respirator Physicals
Required for employees exposed to hazardous substances or working in confined areas, these physicals assess whether an individual can safely wear a respirator.
2. OSHA Medical Questionnaire
Part of the process for respirator physicals, this questionnaire evaluates medical history to identify potential risks related to respirator use.
3. Lift Tests
Designed for positions requiring manual labor or regular lifting, these tests assess an individual’s ability to safely manage the physical demands of the job.
4. Chest X-Rays
Chest X-rays provide insights into lung health, potentially revealing conditions like tuberculosis or pneumoconiosis, ensuring the safety of workers exposed to airborne hazards.
5. Kraus-Weber Tests
This rarely-used assessment evaluates physical fitness and muscular strength in specific work environments.
6. EKG (Electrocardiogram)
An EKG measures heart activity and is often required for physically demanding or high-stress jobs.
7. Vision Tests
We offer several options for vision screening depending on job requirements:
- Snellen (measures visual acuity)
- Titmus (evaluates overall vision capabilities like depth perception)
- Ishihara (color vision testing)
- Jager (checks for near vision clarity)
For DOT physicals, respirator certifications, and other job-specific physicals, our network of clinics ensures quick and convenient services near your location.
DOT Physicals Exam
Employers hiring commercial drivers must ensure each candidate passes a DOT Physical. This comprehensive exam evaluates physical and mental fitness to meet the requirements set by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Our digital tools make locating a clinic for DOT physicals convenient—just search “DOT physical near me,” place an order, and your employee can walk out with results the same day.
If your workforce includes commercial drivers, compliance with federal guidelines through DOT Physicals is non-negotiable. Combine these exams with regular regulated drug tests to ensure safety on the road.
Need to order a physical near your workplace or home? Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/
Drug Testing Services
Drug testing and alcohol testing is a critical element in workplace safety programs. At Workplace Screening Intelligence, we offer a wide range of testing methods to meet any employer’s needs, including:
Regulated Drug Tests vs. Non-Regulated Drug Tests
- Regulated Drug Tests (DOT Drug Test): These tests are mandatory for employees working in federally regulated industries like transportation and require strict compliance with DOT guidelines.
- Non-Regulated Drug Tests (Non-DOT drug test): These are for employers not under federal regulations, allowing flexibility in policy design while maintaining a drug-free environment.
Types of Drug Tests Offered
- Urine Drug Tests: The most common and cost-effective option.
- Hair Follicle Drug Tests: Detects long-term drug use (up to 90 days).
- Oral Fluid Drug Tests: Captures recent drug use.
- Specialized Panels: From 5-panel drug tests to 10-panel drug tests, we can also screen for substances like Fentanyl, Tramadol, Buprenorphine, K-2 Spice, Ketamine, and many more.
Whether you’re searching for a “drug test near me”, panel-specific tests, or an instant drug screen panel 5, our network of labs ensures fast, accurate, and nationwide service.
Need a drug test near me? Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/
Additional Services Include:
- Supervisor Drug and Alcohol Awareness Training: Mandated by the DOT and recommended for all employers, this training helps identify signs of substance abuse and reinforces workplace safety.
For more information on Supervisor Training: Supervisor Drug And Alcohol Training
- Employee Training: Educate your team with our Employee Drug and Alcohol Awareness program to foster a drug-free work environment.
- Designated Employer Representative Training to get quick access to all you need to know to be the point person for your organization drug and alcohol testing program.
- FMCSA Clearinghouse Services: Manage pre-employment queries, annual queries, and access Return-to-Duty Tests with ease through our platform.
- What other names does the FMCSA Clearinghouse go by?
- FMCSA Clearinghouse
- FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse
- FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse
- Clearinghouse FMCSA
- Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse
- DOT Clearinghouse
- Clearinghouse
- Owner Operator FMCSA Clearinghouse
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What cutoffs do most labs utilize?
Cutoff levels depend on the drug screen panel and test type. Most labs follow SAMHSA standards, ensuring accuracy while accounting for trace substance presence. However several labs utilize customized drug test panels to meet their customers needs.
2. Will a failed drug screen go on my record?
For employees in DOT-regulated roles, a failed drug test is reported to the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. Non-DOT employees depend on employer discretion , reporting procedures and policies.
3. Can I order a DOT physical and complete it today?
Yes—our process ensures same-day appointments for most orders. You can Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/
4. Who reports alcohol tests to the FMCSA Clearinghouse?
The CPTA or employer reports verified alcohol test results to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
5. Do car dealerships conduct background checks?
Most dealerships screen candidates with a focus on drug testing, criminal background, and credit-related searches, ensuring they meet the demands of their profession. This maybe dependent on what positions the employee has.
- Do car dealerships test for Marijuana? Although many car dealerships test for Marijuana, there are many that do not test for Marijuana.
Why Choose Workplace Screening Intelligence?
With over 30 years of expertise in workplace compliance and drug testing, we serve as peace of mind for HR professionals and employers nationwide. Our streamlined electronic ordering and tracking system eliminates guesswork, tracking every step—from when the employee arrives at the testing site to when the results move through the Medical Review Office (MRO).
Are you ready to safeguard your workplace with accurate screening, compliance, and efficiency? Whether it’s a Pulmonary Function Test, DOT Consortium services, or random drug testing, Workplace Screening Intelligence is here for you.
Speak with an expert today to simplify your screening process and focus on what matters most—running your business!
What Our Customers say about Us
Carlie M. gave us a 5 Star Google Review and said, “Brenda is amazing! Always so helpful and knowledgeable. Switching from our old provider to WSI has made my job SO much easier”!!
Need to order a drug screen, alcohol test or other employee screening service today? Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/