Employment Physicals

What’s the reason for an employment physical?

More and more companies are asking for an employment physical before a new hire can start to work. Companies require these exams for several reasons. 

For one, employers are trying to avoid hiring a worker who might be a bad fit for the job due to a health issue. Second, they want to evaluate the health risks of individuals being hired to perform safety-sensitive jobs. 

Third, employers also want to make sure the employees they bring on board are a good match for the requirements of the job. Employers must follow health and safety regulations. These regulations demand that hiring managers make sure an employee can carry out the responsibilities of the job prior to employment. 

For example, a police department may ask new recruits to demonstrate physical fitness necessary to perform their jobs before they can join the police force.

Does the law allow employment physicals?

Employment physicals are legal. However, employers requiring employment exams must abide by the federal Americans with Disabilities Act and other laws protecting individuals from discriminatory hiring practices. For example, the ADA prohibits requiring a medical exam prior to extending a job offer. 

What happens in an employment physical?

Most employment medical exams include a physical assessment and screening tests. These tests include:

• Blood work
• Urinalysis
• Tuberculosis test
• Vision screening
• Drug test
• Alcohol test
• Immunity testing (titer lab report)

You also might need an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check the health of your heart. Some employers require assessments of physical abilities, stamina, or endurance. Lab work and other tests are available onsite at Edinger Urgent Care for your convenience.

What happens after an employment physical?

The team at Edinger Urgent Care provides you with a clearance certificate after your results come back. They send a copy of the document to your prospective employer.

If you’ve been hired for a new job and need an employment physical before you can start, call Edinger Urgent Care & Occupational Medicine or request one online today.