MSHA medical review reveals large percentage of employees do not meet medical standards
Posted August 11, 2017
The U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) implemented an action plan for its employees who do not meet the Agency’s medical standards. MSHA says some employees have not met the medical standards for years.
MSHA inspectors and technical personnel are required to have periodic medical examinations and meet U.S. Office of Personnel Management-approved medical standards as a condition of employment. Medical examinations, including vision and hearing tests, are required.
According to MSHA, a review of the examination results show that approximately 15 to 20 percent of MSHA inspectors and technical personnel do not meet the Agency’s medical standards. Further, the problem has been getting worse over several years.
The Department of Labor is working with MSHA to develop an effective, consistent, and equitable plan to resolve the issue.
MSHA will begin individual assessments for employees who do not meet the medical standards. The Agency assures employees that it will incorporate requirements for reasonable accommodation, resolve issues efficiently and effectively, and conduct the assessments in a consistent, fair manner. MSHA says it will be mindful of employees’ privacy concerns and will work with stakeholders, including the employees’ union to keep them informed.
The J. J. Keller® Safety Management Suite, formerly KellerOnline®, provides safety professionals with the tools and applications to help drive performance, reduce risk, and ensure compliance.
J. J. Keller's FREE Workplace SafetyClicks™ email newsletter brings quick-read workplace safety and compliance news right to your email box.