Periodic Medical Examinations

The second component of a Medical Surveillance Program is periodic screening.

The frequency and content of periodic exams will vary, since both are based on the specific work and the exposures of the site. As a general rule, there should be medical exams yearly at a minimum. More frequent exams may be necessary, depending on the following:

• The extent of potential or actual exposure
• The type of chemicals involved
• The duration of the work assignment
• The individual worker's profile

Furthermore, upon voluntary or involuntary termination of hazardous waste site employment, all personnel should have a medical exam. Typically, this should mirror the pre-employment exam. However, it may consist of a review of the employee's interval medical history of the period since the last full exam. This is acceptable if:

• The last full medical examination was within the last 6 months
• No exposure occurred since the last examination
• No symptoms associated with exposure occurred since the last examination

If any of these criteria are not met, there must be a full medical examination at the end of employment.

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