If you’re beginning a career in the transportation industry, you’ve probably heard of a DOT physical. You may be carrying heavy freight or transporting a large number of people via bus. Whatever the circumstance, you need a DOT–Department of Transportation–physical to complete the employment process and keep your work status current. WorkPartners Occupational Health Specialists can help you with every medical requirement you need for this important task.
What Is a DOT Physical?
A DOT physical is a complete, head-to-toe medical examination performed by an occupational medicine specialist. In Grand Junction, CO, the go-to providers are WorkPartners Occupational Health Specialists. Our physicians are fully credentialed to perform complete pre-employment examinations, including DOT physicals, and provide the proper documentation employers and the government require for certain occupations.
At your DOT physical, your physician will check your:
- Hearing
- Vision
- Reflexes (and other signs of neurological health)
- Blood pressure
- Heart and respiratory rate
- Height and weight
- Urine (for diabetes)
- Genitals
- GI tract
- Musculoskeletal system
Also, the doctor will assess your fitness and functional capacity for your specific job and commercial vehicle. They will review your medical history and prescription medications, too. At the conclusion, you will receive a laminated DOT wallet card as proof of your physical capacity for your position.
Top Reasons For a DOT Physical
#1 You must be healthy enough to operate a commercial vehicle.
Operating a semi-truck, bus, or other large commercial vehicle takes special skill and a certain level of physical and mental fitness. You must be capable of safely handling the rigors of a driving schedule, including sitting for long periods of time and operating your vehicle in all kinds of weather. Certain tasks require particular levels of physical strength, visual acuity, cardiovascular endurance, and more.
#2 The federal government and your state government require a DOT physical.
For safety reasons, you cannot drive without a DOT physical if you operate a vehicle carrying hazardous materials, more than 15 people, or weight of 10,000 pounds or more.
#3 Your employer requires a DOT physical.
You must have a certificate of completion from a certified Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) examiner. You cannot be hired or allowed to work in certain positions without this document.
#4 By law, you must have a DOT physical every two years.
Drivers of commercial vehicles are held to a higher standard of knowledge, skill, fitness, and health than drivers of passenger vehicles. Every two years, you are required to meet certain health standards. You may have to be evaluated more frequently in the event of a major illness, injury, or surgery.
Our Occupational Medicine Services in Grand Junction, CO
At Worker Partners Occupational Health in Grand Junction, CO, we provide the screening you and your employer need to operate safely and efficiently. Plus, we ensure your governmental requirements are fully met.
If it’s time for your DOT physical, or you’re an employer who wishes to refer a potential employee for a DOT exam, contact us for additional information. Set up an appointment at (970) 241-5585.
