what reasons would you fail a pre employment physical
Pre-employment physicals are standard for most careers, especially those that require manual labor, working in public safety, or toxic work environments. Employers do these tests to make sure applicants can safely and efficiently do their job without harm to themselves or others.
Although the vast majority of applicants are able to pass pre-employment physicals unproblematically, some will fail as a result of medical issues, drug and alcohol consumption, suboptimal fitness levels, or other disqualifying reasons. If you’re worried about passing a pre-employment physical, this in-depth guide will ensure that you realize:
What is involved in taking a pre-employment physical
Why most applicants fail the test
The particular medical and physical disqualifications
Preparation for the test and how to maximize chances of passing
By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll know exactly what might keep you from being hired because of a failed physical and what you can do about it.
Understanding a Pre-Employment Physical
A pre-employment physical is a health assessment made by a licensed healthcare provider to ascertain whether a job applicant can physically and medically perform the tasks associated with the job. Such exams differ according to profession and work demands but are usually comprised of:
General health screenings (heart rate, blood pressure, weight, BMI)
Eye and ear examinations
Tests for drugs and alcohol
Tests for strength, endurance, and flexibility (when necessary)
Respiratory and cardiovascular testing
Companies and industries that generally need pre-hire physicals are:
Construction and manufacturing (heavy labor jobs)
Health care and nursing (patient lifting, standing for prolonged periods)
Transportation (heavy truck drivers, pilots, equipment operators)
Emergency response (officers, firemen, medics)
Warehousing and shipping (lifting objects, carrying supplies, operating devices)
If you’re interviewing for a sit-down job or job that can be done from a remote location, you might be required to pass only a minimum physical or will not need a physical at all.
Common Reasons for Failing a Pre-Employment Physical
There are numerous reasons why a candidate would fail a pre-employment physical. The following are the most frequent reasons why candidates fail:
1. Pre-existing Medical Conditions
There are medical conditions that would disqualify a candidate, especially if they would impact job performance and safety in the workplace. The most frequent disqualifying conditions are:
Uncontrolled hypertension – Would heighten the risk of stroke or heart attack.
Heart disease – Can limit stamina and contribute to complications in physically demanding positions.
Diabetes (with complications) – Inadequately controlled blood sugar can lead to dizziness, fainting, and fatigue.
Seizure disorders – Can disqualify applicants for safety-sensitive positions.
Although not every medical condition is disqualifying, serious conditions that create a safety hazard or inability to execute job responsibilities can result in failure.
2. Failing a Drug and Alcohol Test
Most employers have mandatory drug and alcohol tests as a condition of a pre-employment physical. Applicants will fail if:
- They have a positive test for illegal substances (marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines).
- They have a high alcoholic content in their body.
- They use prescription drugs that affect the performance of their job without reporting them.
- Though marijuana has been legalized in some states, most employers view a positive test as a failure.
3. Inadequate Vision or Hearing Test Results
Some professions need keen vision and hearing skills, such as:
Commercial drivers, pilots, and machinery operators who must have excellent vision to prevent accidents.
Construction and warehouse workers who depend on good ears to hear alarms and warning signals.
If corrective items such as eyeglasses or hearing aids are not up to job requirements, the applicant might not be fit for the position.
4. Inadequacy in Physical Fitness or Strength
For physically demanding occupations, the employers put the candidates’ physical ability to the test. With a failed fitness test, it can occur because of:
Inability to lift the specified weight
Poor mobility or flexibility
Excessive tiredness during physical activity
With these failures, the candidate is likely to be unable to do the job tasks safely and effectively.
5. Respiratory or Cardiovascular Issues
High physical exertion jobs can disqualify candidates with:
Asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Heart conditions that restrict activity levels
Breathing problems are hazardous in high-effort work environments, such as construction or firefighting.
6. Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Severe high blood pressure is a major risk factor for most jobs. When blood pressure is too high:
The chances of stroke or heart attack increase.
Stressful work environments can exacerbate the condition.
Medical clearance might be required before hiring by employers.
7. History of Workplace Injuries or Disabilities
Some prior disabilities or injuries might affect a candidate’s capacity for work. As per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers are obliged to make necessary accommodations, though some might rule out a candidate if they involve a high degree of safety hazard.
How to Prepare for a Pre-Employment Physical
1. Control Medical Conditions
If you are afflicted with recurring conditions such as diabetes or blood pressure, get in touch with your physician in order to:
Regulate blood pressure with medication and lifestyle modifications.
Maintain blood sugar within control.
Obtain clearance from a doctor if necessary.
2. Refrain from Drug and Alcohol Consumption
In order to clear a drug and alcohol test:
Immediately discontinue using illegal drugs.
Refrain from alcohol consumption at least 24-48 hours prior to the test.
Notify the medical examiner of prescription drugs that you are using.
3. Rest Properly
A proper night’s sleep will return blood pressure, heart rate, and stress levels to normal, enhancing test performance.
4. Enhance Physical Fitness
If the test involves strength and endurance tests, practice:
Cardio exercises for better heart health.
Strength exercises to enhance endurance.
Flexibility exercises for mobility.
5. Hydrate and Have a Healthy Meal
Adequate hydration and a healthy meal support:
Normal blood sugar levels
Stable blood pressure
Healthy energy levels for fitness tests
Final Thoughts
A pre-employment physical guarantees applicants are physically and medically qualified for employment. Failing a physical can be disappointing, but it is not necessarily disqualifying. Certain conditions can be treated, and some employers provide reasonable accommodations.
At DG Club, we offer helpful career information and professional advice to assist job seekers through the process of getting hired. If you require assistance in preparing for the pre-employment physical or career guidance, stop by our website for expert advice and resources.
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