Further Examinations

For all employees exposed to cotton dust at or below the action level, medical examinations must be offered at least once every two years. For employees exposed at or above the action level, medical examinations must be offered at least once per year. In addition, medical examinations must be offered every six months for any employees who meet the following criteria:

• An FEV1 that is more than 80 percent of the expected value for the employee's age, sex, and race, but which decreases by 5 percent or 200 milliliters on the first work day of the week
• An FEV1 that is less than 80 percent of the expected value for the employee's age, sex, and race
• When any negative changes occur in the employee's questionnaire, spirometry results, or other diagnostic tests

Any employee whose FEV1 is less than 60 percent of the expected value must be referred to a doctor for a more detailed examination. The physician must be provided with the following information:

• A copy of 8 CCR 5190
• A description of the employee's work duties
• The employee's level of exposure to cotton dust
• A list of any personal protective equipment used, such as respirators or masks
• Information from previous medical examinations

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