Additional Examinations & Referrals

The complete blood count required for the initial and periodic examinations must be repeated within two weeks if the results of the tests indicate the existence of any of the following abnormal conditions:

• The hemoglobin level or the hematocrit falls below the normal limit, outside the 95 percent confidence interval, as determined by the laboratory for the particular geographic area
• The hemoglobin level or the hematocrit shows a persistent downward trend from the individual's pre-exposure norms as determined in the initial examination
• The platelet count varies more than 20 percent below the employee's most recent values or falls outside the normal limit as determined by the laboratory
• The leukocyte count is lower than 4,000 per mm3, or there is an abnormal differential count

If the abnormality persists, the examining physician should refer the employee to a hematologist or internist for further evaluation, unless the physician has good reason to believe such referral is unnecessary. The hematologist's or internist's evaluation should include a determination as to the need for additional tests, and the employer should ensure that these tests are provided.

To learn more about Benzene Safety visit our Cal/OSHA Benzene Safety Online Training web page.