Article Title

Fit-For-Duty Examinations of Hazmat Responders, An Approach in General Industry

Authors

Gregg CognacFollow

Advisor

Dr. Watkins

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this article is to aid in identifying potential at-risk hazmat workers during fit-for-duty examinations in the field of general industry.

Methods: A thorough literature review was conducted using Cochrane and PubMed online databases.

Results: Thermal strain represents the greatest risk to hazmat responders. Clinical guidance on identifying potential at-risk hazmat workers during fit-for-duty examinations is lacking in the field of general industry.

Conclusions: Current gaps in medical literature may result in examiners underestimating the risk of thermal strain during hazmat fit-for-duty examinations. Recent studies show promise that the utilization of a modified standard Bruce protocol stress test or similar to induce simulated thermal strain could be valuable at identifying at-risk hazmat workers in general industry that should be excluded from hazmat duty.

Recommended Citation

Cognac, Gregg (2019) "Fit-For-Duty Examinations of Hazmat Responders, An Approach in General Industry," Lynchburg Journal of Medical Science: Vol. 1 : Iss. 4 , Article 14.
Available at: https://digitalshowcase.lynchburg.edu/dmscjournal/vol1/iss4/14