Pre-employment testing and physicals are a few of the requirements for starting a new job in many industries. MainStreet Family Care is here to tell you how these tests allow employers to comply with regulations, limit risk factors, and ensure a safe workplace.
What Is Occupational Health?
Occupational Health is a sector of health concerned with the overall health and well-being of employees in any industry. Receiving occupational health care allows employees to develop, improve, and maintain their health in order to work more productively and safely. Additionally, effective occupational health can limit injuries and help get employees back to work quickly.
Pre-employment screenings are a crucial portion of occupational health as they give valuable information about new employee health to employers.
What Are Pre-Employment Screenings?
Many employers require an in-depth screening of new employees to ensure they are able to complete their jobs safely and legally. It is likely that these tests may be completed during the hiring process, depending on what type of industry you are going into.
A few of the screenings that an employer may require include:
- Drug tests
- Alcohol screenings
- Vision and hearing tests
- Psychological exam
- Urinalysis
- Respirator fit testing
- Infectious disease testing (COVID-19, Tuberculosis, etc.)
- Antibody tests (MMR, Varicella, Tuberculosis, etc.)
Make sure to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions to your hiring manager while in the interview process. It is also important to be aware that the test results may directly impact the employer’s hiring decision.
Your employer may also require you to disclose your vaccination status and update your vaccines if you have not. This is crucial if working with others who are medically vulnerable.
MainStreet Family Care completes all pre-employment screenings through our occupational health services!
What Are Pre-Employment Physicals?
A pre-employment physical examination consists of several physical ability tests. These tests will allow your employer to know what your limitations are as well as what you are safely able to do.
Some of the physical tests you may complete include the following:
- Vital sign measurements (heart rate, blood pressure, breathing sounds, temperature, and respiration rate)
- Overlooking skin health
- General movement and mobility exam
- Head and neck exam
Depending on what type of work you are completing, you may have to complete yearly physical exams. This is especially important for those operating heavy machinery or working around hazardous materials.
How Should I Prepare For A Pre-Employment Physical?
When receiving a pre-employment physical, you will likely be asked to move each of your extremities to test for range of motion and ability. Ensure that you are wearing proper clothing that allows you to move freely.
Additionally, come prepared with any necessary paperwork, such as your medical history, prescriptions, valid photo ID, and employer information.
Turn To MainStreet Family Care
At MainStreet, we care about your employees as much as you do. We offer a host of cost-effective occupational health services at our urgent care and primary care center! Interested in working with providers who care? Contact us to set up a corporate account.
