Slides
Occupational Testing Update – Via Google Drive
Occupational Testing Update – Via Dropbox
Video
Town Hall Overview:
Welcome everybody to Tuesday’s Town Hall. Today, we discuss Occupational Health Testing Updates in the wake of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In this blog post, we will explore the insights shared by Dena Kirk and Dr. Laura Radke, providing valuable information on how testing procedures have evolved, the challenges faced, and the importance of maintaining employee health and safety in the workplace.
Changing Landscape of Occupational Health Testing:
The pandemic has drastically altered the landscape of occupational health testing. Dr. Larry Earl, President and CEO of the National Association of Occupational Health Professionals (NAOHP), noted in his January edition of Visions for this year that members are still preoccupied with COVID-related patient care, infection control, testing supply issues, and staffing challenges caused by absences. However, as the situation settles into a “new normal,” companies are adapting their testing procedures to ensure employee well-being.
Testing Updates and the Role of Spirometry and Fit Testing:
Dr. Radke explains that at the beginning of the pandemic, testing procedures such as spirometry and fit testing were heavily restricted. Only minimal testing was conducted, and companies implemented OSHA Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS) guidelines. However, as time went on and organizations published new standards, a shift occurred. Testing resumed, but the process was not the same as pre-pandemic. Companies now incorporate additional safety measures, such as pre-testing individuals, documenting vaccine status, and monitoring community COVID-19 transmission rates to reduce exposure risks.
Challenges Faced and Modified Processes:
Dr. Radke highlights the challenges faced in resuming testing amidst the pandemic. Staff members have to wear N95 masks, limiting their ability to provide hands-on instruction or demonstrations. Additionally, the process now involves increased disinfection, room turnover time, and scheduling longer periods to complete tests. These changes have led to slower testing times compared to pre-pandemic situations.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Testing Staff:
One crucial aspect of ensuring employee safety during testing is the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Dr. Radke emphasizes the importance of staff members wearing N95 masks, gloves, and protective eyewear to minimize the risk of exposure. To ensure a safe working environment, strict vaccination policies have been implemented, with employees being fully vaccinated and up-to-date on boosters.
Company Requests and Return to Wellness:
As the pandemic evolves, companies are now shifting focus from COVID-19 testing to broader wellness initiatives. Missed opportunities for screening exams and visits with primary care doctors during the pandemic have prompted companies to request on-site wellness screening services. These services include health risk appraisals, fingerstick labs, and various other screening opportunities to promote employee health and wellbeing.
Role of Antibody Testing and Vaccines:
The discussion also touches upon the role of antibody testing. While it can identify past infections, it is not recommended for diagnosing acute infections or establishing immunity after vaccination. The complexities surrounding antibody testing lie in the uncertainty of antibody levels required for adequate protection against reinfection. Research is ongoing to determine the correlation between antibody levels and immunity.
Masking Policies in the Workplace:
Throughout the pandemic, masking policies have varied among different industries. While some companies have lifted mask mandates following low community transmission levels, healthcare providers continue to enforce strict masking policies. Understanding that healthcare settings necessitate additional precautions, employees and visitors are required to wear masks to safeguard against potential exposure.
Navigating occupational health testing during the pandemic has been a challenging journey for employers and healthcare providers alike. As organizations adapt to the “new normal,” they prioritize the well-being of their employees by implementing meticulous testing protocols, ensuring proper PPE usage, and incorporating wellness initiatives into their workplace strategies. By continuously observing guidelines from health authorities, addressing specific industry needs, and adapting to evolving research, employers can maintain a safe and healthy work environment for their employees.
So, as we move forward into the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, let us remember the importance of occupational health testing and the crucial role it plays in protecting workers and mitigating the spread of the virus. Together, we can navigate the changing landscape of occupational health testing and foster a safer and healthier working environment for all.
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