With health and safety regulations in the workplace becoming increasingly important, employers are now requiring workers to undergo physical exams and often specific tests or screenings prior to beginning work. Pre-employment physicals are used to determine whether job applicants are medically fit to perform certain tasks to ensure workers, customers, and the public remain safe. Find out more about a few types of jobs that require pre-employment physicals in the article below.

What Types of Jobs Require a Pre-Employment Physical?

1. Regulated Industries

Workers in industries heavily regulated by the government often require a physical exam. This could include anything from plumbing and electric work, to truck driving, to production and machine operating. Depending on the job, employers may require certain medical exams to verify that the applicant is not medically unfit to perform essential job functions or able to operate certain equipment.

2. Firefighters

Firefighters must pass a series of fitness exams to ensure they are capable of performing all work-related tasks. Physical exams must include vision and hearing tests, urine tests, and vaccinations for certain communicable diseases. Additionally, they must perform certain functional tests that evaluate strength, flexibility, and the ability to carry and lift heavy objects.

3. Healthcare Workers

Given the high-risk nature of healthcare work, employers often require all newly hired employees to pass a physical exam. This includes medical professionals such as nurses, doctors, and other licensed staff, as well as non-medical personnel, such as administrative staff, laboratory technicians, and housekeeping workers. The exam may vary depending on the job, but they often require a vision and hearing exam, tests for communicable diseases, and a general physical assessment.

4. Private Sector

Some private sector workers, such as those in hazardous occupations, may require a physical exam before starting work. This may include extra tests to evaluate vision, hearing, and physical strength and flexibility. For example, miners, chefs, or longshoremen may be required to undergo certain tests or screenings to ensure they can perform job-related tasks safely.

5. Construction Workers

Given the hazardous nature of most construction work, employers may require applicants to pass a physical exam to determine if they're fit for the job. Construction workers often require tests to evaluate hearing ability, vision, manual dexterity, balance, and coordination. Additionally, employers may require testing for any physical restrictions, such as the inability to climb ladders or operate machinery.

When you need to schedule a physical exam for yourself or a potential employee, turn to Affinity Industrial Medicine. Serving businesses throughout the Monroe, LA area, this industrial and occupational medical clinic offers services ranging from pre-employment physicals and medical screenings to drug testing, injury care, and more. Call them at (318) 812-7559 to discuss your needs with a representative, and visit them online to learn more about their services.