Periodic Examinations

The employer should provide workers with a medical examination annually. These exams should include at least the following elements:

• A brief history of any new exposure to potential marrow toxins, changes in medicinal drug use, and the appearance of physical signs that may indicate blood disorders
• A complete blood count including a leukocyte count with differential, a quantitative thrombocyte count, a hemoglobin evaluation, a hematocrit, an erythrocyte count, and erythrocyte indices
• Appropriate additional tests as necessary, in the opinion of the examining physician, in case of alterations in the components of the blood or other signs that may be related to benzene exposure

If the employee develops signs and symptoms commonly associated with toxic exposure to benzene, the employer should provide an additional medical examination, which should include whatever elements are considered appropriate by the examining physician.

For workers required to use respirators for at least 30 days a year, a pulmonary function test should be performed every three years to evaluate the cardiopulmonary system.

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