Express Test conducts on-site clinical testing specifically designed for respirator users taking into account the type respirator, exertion level of work and the duration of use.

A respirator can take the form of a NIOSH or MSHA approved dust mask, half-face or full face respirator, powered air-purifying respirator, air-line or self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), 29 CFR 1910.134, requires that employers determine if employees are at-risk from the use of a respirator being assigned.

Our medical clearance includes the following: 

1. Evaluation of complete medical history
2. Verification of height and weight
3. Blood pressure (systolic & Diastolic) at rest
4. Resting heart rate
5. Regularity of heart beat
6. Pulmonary function test
7. Vision (Snellen) screening *
8. Color discrimination screening *
9. Whisper (hearing) Test* 

*Vision, color discrimination and whisper screenings are conducted solely for safety purposes as it is assumed that the need for a respirator places the employee in a more hazardous work environment.

There is an erroneous assumption that pulmonary function testing alone is sufficient for a medical clearance for respiratory use. This assumption leads employees to work at high physical risk jobs, i.e. high exertion levels, rescue operations, high heat levels or even in confined spaces, where the cardiovascular system operating improperly can place the employee at significant risk. This is why verification of the employee's blood pressure, heart rate and regularity of heart beat, together with physician review of medical history is critical to the respiratory evaluation.

The above data is entered into our system which produces a summary report and employee letter signed by Gerald N. Plost, M.D., board certified physician in pulmonary medicine.