Hazmat Monitoring and Hazmat Physicals

Spokane WA, Coeur d’Alene ID, and the Inland PNW

Occupational Medicine and Testing for Workers

Regularly Exposed to Hazardous Materials and Chemicals

“Shielding Workers from Harm…Protecting Businesses from Risk”

Welcome to Guardian Health. Unprotected exposure to hazardous chemicals can have serious effects on our health. By prioritizing regular physicals and monitoring, workers can safeguard their health and well-being in hazardous work environments.

Common Hazardous Materials

Hazmat monitoring is for workers who deal with hazardous materials, which refers to any waste material that poses a threat to human health or the environment. Hazardous materials can be found in various forms such as liquids, gases, or solids, and include hazardous chemicals (Asbestos, Beryllium, Cadmium, etc.) and hazardous waste (cleaning chemicals, batteries, pesticides, etc.).

Coming into contact with these materials can result in burning, poison, paralysis, cancer, blindness, and even death. As a result, Washington state has specific regulations in place for the handling and disposal of hazardous materials. These rules protect workers, businesses, communities, and the environment.

What Makes Guardian Health

the Best Choice For Your Hazmat Physical?

  • Affordable Costs

    Our testing fees are 22% cheaper than local competition.

  • Quick Service

    Your employees will spend minutes, not hours, before they are back out the door.

  • Thorough Testing

    We adhere to higher health standards than large corporations to ensure nothing gets missed.

  • Welcoming Atmosphere

    Coffee, snacks, and no-fuss facility perfect for workers at the end of their shift.

  • Personalized Care

    Workplace injury treatment with long-term thriving and industry-specific excellence in mind.

  • Easy Correspondence

    Whether phone or email, we’ll get back to you by the end of the day.

Partner With Us for Health and Safety
health workers defend against virus

The Risks Associated with Hazardous Materials

Some hazardous materials are so obviously deadly and dangerous that they need no explanation. Anyone that interacts with them knows to gear up and follow protocol. But others are dangerous because the effects are NOT immediate...

Exposure to some hazardous materials can take days, weeks, years, or even decades before their harmful effects are felt. They can be the primary contributor for diseases like cancer, or create life-long respiratory issues. Exposure to hazardous substancess can occur through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion.

Hazmat training equips workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle hazardous materials safely. It covers topics such as proper handling and storage techniques, personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, and emergency response procedures. Commercial drivers, responsible for transporting hazardous materials, should pay special attention to hazmat training and monitoring.

Why Regular Monitoring and Physicals are Essential

The HAZWOPER standard set by OSHA requires that workers who "who are or may be exposed to hazardous substances or health hazards at or above permissible exposure levels for 30 days or more per year" must have a regular monitoring program in place.

One of the key reasons for regular monitoring is to identify any changes in our health that may be caused by hazardous material exposure. These exams can help detect any underlying health conditions while they are still treatable. hey also provide an opportunity for us to discuss any concerns or symptoms we may be experiencing and do additional testing. By monitoring our health on a regular basis, we can catch any potential issues early and take appropriate action to address them.

 

We’re centrally located between Spokane and CDA, right off I-90.

Workers never need to worry about stopping by at the wrong time; we have snacks and beverages, an excellent vacuum for dusty boots, and plenty of parking for large trucks!

Health Implications of Hazmat Exposure

Exposure to hazardous materials, especially in hazardous waste operations, can have long-term health implications. It is important to understand and address these risks if you want to maintain a safe working environment:

  • Respiratory Diseases: Prolonged exposure to hazardous materials can lead to respiratory problems such as difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing (among others). These symptoms lead to respiratory diseases such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, and even lung cancer. It is important to wear a respirator or appropriate respiratory protection when working with these substances.

  • Skin irritations: Contact with certain hazardous chemicals can cause skin irritations, rashes, or burns. It is crucial to use proper personal protective equipment, such as gloves and coveralls, to minimize the risk of skin exposure. Using proper personal protective equipment, such as gloves and coveralls, can help minimize the risk of skin exposure.

  • Eye Injuries: Hazardous substances can cause severe eye injuries, including chemical burns and irritation. Wearing eye protection, such as goggles or face shields, is essential and non-negotiable.

  • Cancer: Certain hazardous substances, such as asbestos and benzene, have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and leukemia.

  • Organ Damage: Exposure to hazardous materials can cause damage to internal organs, such as the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system.

  • Reproductive Issues: Some hazardous substances can have adverse effects on reproductive health, leading to infertility, birth defects, and developmental disorders in children.

lung test

Monitoring Techniques Used by Guardian Health

for Hazmat Physicals in Spokane WA

  • Respiratory Function Tests: These tests measure lung function and can help identify any respiratory issues caused by exposure to hazardous substances.

  • Blood and Urine Tests: These tests can detect the presence of hazardous chemicals or substances in the body and assess overall health.

  • Eye Tests: We monitor your vision with the Titmusi500 machine, a device far more accurate than the standard eye tests.

  • Physical Examinations: Comprehensive physical examinations are conducted to assess overall health, including the examination of vital signs, skin, and organ systems.

  • Medical History Review: A thorough review of the worker's medical history is conducted to identify any pre-existing health conditions or potential risk factors related to hazmat exposure.

Phone Hours

  • Monday — Friday 7:00am — 5:00pm

    Clinic Hours

  • Monday 7:00-3:30 (Medical Examiner 7:00-12:00)

  • Tuesday 7:00-5:30 (Medical Examiner 12:00-5:30)

  • Wednesday 7:00-3:30 (Medical Examiner 7:00-12:00)

  • Thursday 7:00-5:30 (Medical Examiner 12:00-5:30)

  • Friday 7:00-3:30 (Medical Examiner 7:00-3:30)

  • DOT Exams - walk-ins during Medical Examiner hours (as available)

  • DOT Urine Drug Screens are available 7am-3pm M-F

  • Non DOT Urine Drug Screens are available 7am to closing M-F

  • HOLIDAYS - Closed Thanksgiving, reduced hours on Friday After. Closed Christmas Day, Closed New Years Day

hazmat workers cleaning up a spill

Who Wears Hazmat Suits?

In certain situations, such as emergency response or hazardous waste operations, workers may be required to wear hazmat suits. Hazmat suits are the full body white or yellow suits specifically designed to provide maximum protection against hazardous materials and substances. Emergency response workers, including firefighters and hazmat teams, often wear hazmat suits when dealing with accident and disaster situations involving hazardous materials. Those who work construction may not encounter hazardous materials to the same extent as emergency responders, and require a less extreme form of protection.

Contact Us

If you are interested in upgrading your occupational health coverage, please fill out our contact form and we will get back to you before the end of the business day.

If you have immediate questions, feel free to call Erin, our office manager, at (509) 402-2880.

Pre-Examination Requirements

Before undergoing a hazmat physical examination, there are certain training requirements and certifications that hazmat workers in Spokane must fulfill. These requirements are mandated by Washington state regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of workers handling hazardous materials:

  • Hazmat Training: Workers must complete the necessary hazmat training courses, such as the 24-hour or 40-hour HAZWOPER training. These courses provide essential knowledge and skills for handling hazardous materials safely including and recognition, containment, and decontamination.

  • Certifications: Depending on the specific job function and responsibilities, workers may need certain certifications, such as a hazmat endorsement, to legally handle hazardous materials in Spokane.

By meeting these pre-examination requirements, hazmat workers can demonstrate their commitment to safety and compliance with regulations in Washington.

 Frequently Asked Questions

  • Hazmat physicals differ from regular physicals in that they are specifically tailored to assess the health and well-being of workers who handle hazardous materials. These physicals focus on identifying any health issues or risks associated with exposure to hazardous substances.

  • The frequency of physicals may vary depending on the specific job function, level of exposure, and regulatory requirements. Ask your employer or HR rep for the legal guidelines for your specific industry.

  • Yes, hazmat physicals can detect early signs of occupational diseases. These physicals are designed to identify any health issues or risks associated with hazardous material exposure. Early detection of occupational diseases means we can provide timely medical intervention for hazmat workers in Spokane Valley.

  • Guardian Health does not at this time offer hazmat training. However, we are in partnership with other training providers and would be happy to connect you.

  • Guardian Occupational Health is recommended for hazmat workers in Spokane and Coeur d'Alene due to their thorough testing, affordability, and quick and easy service for workers.

  • Hazmat suits are designed to provide maximum protection to workers who handle hazardous materials. These suits act as a barrier between the worker and the hazardous substances, offering protection from skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion. They are an essential piece of safety equipment in emergency response and hazardous waste operations.

Fast Service…

Thorough Examinations…

Respectful Help…

Easy Going Interactions.

Regular monitoring and physical exams can help detect and prevent these health issues for those working with hazardous materials. Hazmat suits offer protection against potential health hazards, ensuring the safety of workers, as does understanding the risks associated with hazardous materials and maintaining a safe work environment.