Section 325.77109a. Initial examination.

a. Before the time of initial assignment, an employer shall provide a medical examination for each employee covered by the provisions of this rule. The examination shall include all of the following:

(a)  A detailed occupational history, including all of the following:

(i)   Past work exposure to benzene or any other hematological toxins.

(ii)   A family history of blood dyscrasias, including hematological neoplasms.

(iii)     A history of blood dyscrasias, including genetic hemoglobin abnormalities, bleeding abnormalities, and abnormal function of formed blood elements.

(iv)   A history of renal or liver dysfunction.

(v)   A history of medicinal drugs routinely taken.

(vi)   A history of previous exposure to ionizing radiation.

(vii)   Exposure to marrow toxins outside of the current work situation.

(b)   A complete physical examination.

(c)   A complete blood count, including all of the following:

(i)   A leukocyte count with differential.

(ii)   A quantitative thrombocyte count.

(iii)   Hematocrit.

(iv)   Hemoglobin.

(v)   Erythrocyte count and erythrocyte indices (MCV, MCH, MCHC). The results of these tests shall be reviewed by the examining physician.

(d)  Additional tests that the examining physician deems necessary due to alterations to the components of the blood or other signs which may be related to benzene exposure.

(e)   For all workers who are required to wear respirators for not less than 30 days a year, the physical examination shall pay special attention to the cardiopulmonary system and shall include a pulmonary function test.

History: 2014 AACS.