Occupational Health Tests – Des Moines, IA

Des Moines occupational health services are primarily governed by the Iowa State OSHA plan, which has been in place since 1985. Iowa OSHA compliance officers are responsible for enforcing the state's workplace safety and health standards, inspecting workplaces for hazardous conditions, and issuing citations for violations of safety rules and regulations.

Iowa State Code Chapter 88 provides job safety and health protection to workers throughout the state. Among other things, it states that employees have the right to anonymously report unsafe working conditions and that they may not be discharged or discriminated against for filing a report. In addition, employers who are found to have violated Chapter 88 must prominently display their citations and may be subject to fines and penalties of up to $7,000 per violation.

Following Iowa State and Des Moines workplace health rules is critical for both employers and employees. Not only does this help employers avoid citations, fees, and fines for non-compliance, but strict adherence to the rules can also help minimize liability if a workplace accident or injury occurs. Providing a safe and healthy workplace can also improve employee morale and may reduce sick calls, employee turnover, and workers' compensation claims.

For employees, understanding how to access Des Moines occupational health services can help ensure timely reporting of unsafe conditions. This may allow them to be resolved before they result in an employee illness, injury, or death. Having a clear understanding of occupational health rights and obligations can also help ensure employees do not unintentionally create an unsafe workplace for their coworkers.

Many workplace occupational health laws are designed to ensure that workers are physically fit enough to perform the duties of their job. Not only does this help avoid workplace injuries, but it can also help ensure the safety of their coworkers. There are several of these rules in place within the city of Des Moines.

For example, the Des Moines public school system requires all employees to submit to a pre-employment examination to show they meet the requirements for their job category. This is required after the offer for employment has been extended but before their first day of employment. Candidates for the Des Moines Police Department must also undergo a physical examination, drug screen, and psychological screening.

More recently, the state of Iowa had to address workplace occupational health issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic and related vaccination mandates. On October 29, 2021, House File 902 was signed into law. This allowed employees to seek a waiver against COVID-19 vaccinations for religious or health reasons. The law also ensured that employees who are terminated for refusing to comply with COVID vaccination requirements are still able to receive unemployment benefits.