When several employees need respirator fit testing, audiograms, or both, scheduling individual clinic visits can become a challenge. Employers have to manage shifts, travel, and time away from the job.
For Alaska employers with multiple employees due for testing around the same time, on-site group testing may be a more practical option.
When Does On-Site Testing Make Sense?
There is no OSHA rule that says a certain number of employees makes group testing the right choice. Employers should consider how many employees need testing, where they work, their schedules, and how difficult it is to send them to a clinic.
If only a few employees need testing, clinic appointments may work well. If an entire crew is due, bringing testing to the worksite may be easier to coordinate, especially when travel or worksite location makes individual appointments difficult.
Know the Requirements Before Scheduling
For employees required to use tight-fitting respirators, OSHA requires fit testing before initial use, whenever a different respirator facepiece is used, and at least annually. Employees must be tested with the same make, model, style, and size they will use at work. The required medical evaluation must also happen before fit testing or required respirator use.
For workplace noise, OSHA requires audiometric testing to be made available to employees exposed at or above an eight-hour time-weighted average of 85 dBA under its general industry standard. Covered employees receive a baseline audiogram and at least annual audiograms afterward.
Plan Before Testing Day
On-site testing can make scheduling easier, but it does not change the compliance requirements. Before scheduling respirator fit testing in Alaska, employers should confirm which employees need testing, that required medical evaluations are complete, and that the correct respirators are available.
Audiograms require planning too. OSHA requires a baseline audiogram to be preceded by at least 14 hours without workplace noise exposure, although hearing protection can substitute for this requirement. Employees must also be told to avoid high levels of non-workplace noise during that period.
Is Group Testing Right for Your Crew?
If several employees are due for testing, compare the logistics of individual clinic appointments with bringing testing on-site. The requirements stay the same, but the way you coordinate them can be different.
MedPhysicals Plus provides respirator fit testing, audiology services, and mobile and on-site occupational health services for Alaska employers. We can help employers determine whether on-site group testing or clinic-based appointments make more sense for their workforce.
Need help coordinating employee testing? Call (907) 561-7587, email admin@medphysicalsplus.com, or visit medphysicalsplus.com.