Doctor's Opinion

If a worker is referred to a doctor for a more detailed medical examination, the doctor must then provide that worker and his or her employer with the following information:

• The results of the medical examination regarding lung capacity
• The doctor's opinion on whether the worker has any other conditions that may put the worker at increased risk, such as asthma or other lung conditions
• The doctor's opinion on whether the worker is physically able to wear a respirator
• The doctor's recommendation on limiting exposure to cotton dust

The doctor is not allowed to give employers any medical information that does not relate to cotton dust exposure. If a doctor recommends that a worker no longer work in an environment that could expose that worker to cotton dust, the employer must find another job for that worker at the same wage rate.

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