Types of Medical Examinations

Medical Surveillance Examinations - required for all employees operating Class 3B and Class 4 lasers and laser systems. Medical surveillance examinations may include an assessment of physical fitness to safely perform duties, biological monitoring of exposure to a specific agent, and early detection of biological damage or effect.

Preassignment Medical Examinations - these examinations establish a baseline against which damage can be measured in the event of an accidental injury. These examinations can also identify workers who might be at risk from chronic exposure to continuous wave lasers. Only a visual acuity measurement is required for incidental workers (those not working directly with the laser but working within the laser work area). Laser operators require medical histories, visual acuity measurement, and selected examination protocols determined by the wavelength of laser radiation. The LSO is responsible for determining the personnel categories for medical surveillance.

Periodic Medical Examinations - these examinations are not required because no chronic health problems have been linked to working with lasers.

Termination Medical Examinations - these examinations are not required. The primary purpose for employers conducting termination exams is for legal protection against unwarranted claims of damage or injury after the employee has left the job.

All examinations should be performed by, or under the supervision of, an ophthalmologist or optometrist or other qualified physician.

During any of these types of medical examinations, doctors may test for the following:

Visual Acuity - measures far and near vision based on standardized and reproducible methods.
Color Vision - tests color vision discrimination.
Macular Function - tests for distortions and scotomas.
Skin Examination - recommended for workers with a history of photosensitivity or who work with ultraviolet lasers; family history and current skin complaints are reviewed and recorded.

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