How Do Pre-employment Physicals Impact Job Eligibility?
Pre-employment Physicals can play a significant role in determining a candidate's eligibility for certain jobs, particularly in roles that require specific physical or sensory abilities. If the results of the physical indicate that the candidate is unable to meet the health and fitness standards required for the job, they may be deemed ineligible for the position. For example, an individual applying for a job that involves heavy lifting may need to demonstrate sufficient strength and mobility during the exam. If the candidate cannot meet these requirements, the employer may decide that they are not a good fit for the role.
However, it's important to note that pre-employment physicals are not designed to discriminate against candidates based on health status. Under laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers are required to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, provided the candidate can still perform the essential functions of the job with those accommodations. In this way, pre-employment physicals help ensure that candidates are placed in roles where they can safely and effectively perform their duties, while also protecting employers from potential liabilities.
