Types of Work Physicals
There are several types of employment check-ups, including:
- General pre-employment—to ensure physical fitness.
- Department of Transportation (DOT)—to meet U.S. government health standards for CMV operation.
- Respiratory—to meet OSHA requirements for respirator use.
- Physical abilities—to ensure physical readiness for job-specific tasks.
How to Prepare for an Employee Physical Exam
If your employer requires a work physical exam, here is how you can ensure it goes as well as possible:
- Get a good night’s sleep and eat a healthy breakfast.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Make a list of all current medications, medical history and any necessary devices (e.g., hearing aids, glasses, etc.).
- Bring all required paperwork and a valid identification card.
What Happens During a Work Physical Exam
Here is what to expect at each visit:
- General pre-employment
A pre-employment physical is a medical exam that ensures you are physically fit enough to meet the demands of a specific role. Here is what to expect:- Basic exam (e.g., measure height, weight, and blood pressure).
- Review of current medications or supplements.
- Assessment of reflexes, joints, heart, lungs, eyes, and ears.
- Department of Transportation (DOT)
A DOT physical is a medical exam that ensures you meet all U.S. government health standards and can safely operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). Here is what to expect:- Vision and hearing tests.
- Blood pressure/pulse rate.
- Urinalysis.
- Comprehensive physical exam.
- Respiratory
A respiratory physical examination is required by OSHA every one to two years for specific roles. It helps detect whether wearing a respirator will limit or interfere with breathing, vision, communications or use of required equipment. - Physical abilities
A physical abilities test (PAT) is a fitness exam that determines whether a person is fit enough to perform the physical tasks required for a job. These tests are often required as part of the hiring process but may also be used to approve return to work following injury.
Blood and urine tests may also be performed as part of these check-ups.
If you need a same-day DOT physical, please call ahead to ensure our FMCSA-certified physician is available.
Same-Day Work Physical Near Me
Alamo City Urgent Care is your go-to solution for same-day physicals that fit into your busy schedule.
No appointments necessary—just bring your forms, and we’ll handle the rest you can get back to work without delay.