Medical Surveillance Program

A medical surveillance program is a comprehensive program that defines the type and frequency of medical evaluations. OSHA states that a medical surveillance program must be implemented for the following employees:

• Individuals who are exposed (or may be exposed) to hazardous substances or other health hazards that are at or above the established PELs (or above the published exposure levels for these substances) for more than 30 days each year
• All employees who wear a respirator for 30 days or more a year (which is required by CFR 1910.134)
• All employees who experience injuries, illness, or symptoms possibly linked to overexposure of hazardous substances or health hazards from hazardous waste operation emergency response
• Members of HAZMAT teams

Employers should consult OSHA's document titled Medical Screening and Surveillance Requirements in OSHA Standards: A Guide for specific requirements about the screening and surveillance of each chemical found in the workplace. Medical surveillance is also outlined in CFR 1910.120.

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