If you work for an employer under a workplace that is deemed “safety-sensitive,” you may be asked to undergo a DOT physical before working or while working. DOT stands for the Department of Transportation, meaning that their job can impact both their own safety, as well as the public's. The federal law requires that a DOT physical be performed before being employed, to ensure that they are physically fit before starting.
Anyone who works in a public setting or overwatches authority such as a commercial truck driver or an airplane attendant would have to undergo a test to ensure they are in good health to work safely.
If you are a commercial driver, you need to make sure to bring a complete list of medications and your doctor’s information. If you have trouble seeing or hearing, make sure to bring all aids, such as eyeglasses or hearing aids, to the test to be properly examined. Drivers with diabetes must also bring their most recent lab results and a list of their medical history.
A DOT physical covers plenty of variables to ensure that the employee is actually adequate to work. During a physical, vision, hearing and blood pressure are checked accordingly. You will be given an eye test to look for proper dilation and appropriate eye movement. If you have macular degeneration, this is the time to tell your employer and doctor. Your hearing will also be evaluated for abnormalities.
A physical exam will also cover a dozen of different categories, such as the lungs, chest, abdomen and other extremities. Your examiner will make sure that everything seems in place and in order. This is a great time to also be examined for other abnormalities, such as cancer or other dangerous infections that could hinder your driving on the road.
Unless there is a problem found, a DOT medical certification is good for two years; people with extreme medical conditions may have their certification shortened to a year in certain cases. It is important to remember to get this certification renewed every two years, as failure to do so could strip your ability to drive in the future.
A urinalysis may also be required to ensure that no drugs and alcohol are in your system. As a commercial driver, it is important to not have your mental capacity impaired while on the road. You could potentially place yourself and others at a massive risk if you were to be drinking or driving under the influence.
If you pass the physical, you will be given a certificate and a copy to pass along to your employer. Although the information will not be sent directly to the employer, the information could be released if they desire. At the end of the day, a DOT test will ensure that a truck driver is competent and physically able to operate a motor vehicle.
It is important to keep up to date with your state’s laws on operating large vehicles too, as they could change without notice.
Are you considering a DOT physical in the New Caney area? Get more DOT physical information at https://tx-urgentcare.com.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Flu shots protect children from common strains of influenza. No one wants to be stuck in bed dealing with the symptoms of this common illness. A flu shot can help prevent complications and reduce the chances of catching the flu in the first place. A primary care or urgent care doctor can further discuss the…
Consulting your primary care physician, or "PCP," regularly can help ensure good health. This typically means every three years for most healthy adults under age 50. After your 50th birthday, annual physicals are advised. But what if you have a minor illness? It can be difficult to tell whether you should visit your PCP. This…
Immunizations are an important part of primary care. Not only can they help prevent illness, but they can also reduce the chance of complications should you get sick. Whether you want to get ahead of flu season or whatever else may come your way, your primary care doctor can provide the vaccinations you need.When many…
A walk-in clinic can provide you with the care that you need without the stress of waiting for an emergency doctor in a crowded room. Receiving immediate care is important whenever you are injured or sick. That is why choosing an urgent care clinic over an emergency room is ideal. Here are the benefits that…
Flu shots protect children from common strains of influenza. No one wants to be stuck in bed dealing with the symptoms of this common illness. A flu shot can help prevent complications and reduce the chances of catching the flu in the first place. A primary care or urgent care doctor can further discuss the…
Consulting your primary care physician, or "PCP," regularly can help ensure good health. This typically means every three years for most healthy adults under age 50. After your 50th birthday, annual physicals are advised. But what if you have a minor illness? It can be difficult to tell whether you should visit your PCP. This…