Prioritizing the health and safety of employees is paramount for every employer. Tuberculosis (TB) remains an ongoing health concern, making routine employee TB testing a crucial aspect of workplace health protocols. In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of TB testing, covering current guidelines, testing methods, and the importance of identifying latent TB infections.
Who Needs to TB Test for Employment
Before we get into the frequency and process for TB testing, let’s discuss who should have a tuberculosis test. TB testing generally applies to those who work in high-risk healthcare settings. This may include, but is not limited to:
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Urgent care centers
- Labs
- Emergency medical services
- Correctional facilities
- Homecare
- Assisted living facilities
- Homeless shelters
- Schools and daycares
Once you have clearly established who needs a tuberculosis test, it’s time for baseline screening and testing.
Baseline Tuberculosis Screening and TB Testing
Per the CDC guidelines for TB testing, upon hiring, but before starting work (i.e. pre-employment), your employees should undergo a baseline tuberculosis screening. The TB screening needs to include an individual risk assessment, symptom evaluation, and a TB test (more on TB testing methods below). If their test result is positive, the next step is to give them a symptom assessment and chest x-ray. Those with a prior positive TB test can simply do a risk assessment and symptom screening — no need for them to do another TB test.
Note that the above are nationwide guidelines. Each state may also have its own TB testing requirements. Consult your state and local Department of Health TB control program for details. We can also help you navigate any TB testing requirements specific to your industry and location.
Annual TB Screening, TB Testing, and Education
Annual employee TB testing is typically not required unless there is a known exposure or ongoing transmission. For employees in high-risk settings, such as respiratory therapists or pulmonologists, annual tuberculosis screening can be considered, but employers, along with state and local health departments, can make that decision on a case-by-case basis.
All healthcare personnel need to be educated annually on the risk factors, symptoms, and control policies for tuberculosis, including latent TB.
The Importance of Testing for Latent TB Infections (LTBI)
Latent TB infections (LTBI) represent a challenge in TB control efforts for employers. Unlike active TB disease, LTBI is asymptomatic and non-contagious, but individuals with LTBI harbor the TB bacteria in their bodies. However, there’s a risk that LTBI can progress to active TB disease, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Identifying and treating LTBI is crucial for preventing the progression to active TB disease and reducing the risk of TB transmission in the workplace. This is why it’s important to incorporate LTBI screening and testing into your pre-employment testing
Different TB Testing Methods
Two primary methods are used for employee TB testing: TB skin tests and TB blood tests. For a skin test, we offer the PPD TB Test. For a blood test, we offer the QuantiFERON-TB blood test. Each method effectively detects tuberculosis, so it’s helpful to understand the different TB testing methods. That being said, the QuantiFERON-TB blood test is considered the gold standard for TB testing. But if you’d like more guidance on which test to offer, you can lean on our clinical knowledge and testing experience to guide you to the right one.
With either test method, if there is a positive result, that person will need to have a confirmatory chest x-ray. If the chest x-ray shows they have tuberculosis, treatment is necessary, and they should also see their primary care provider.
The Benefits of Employee TB Testing with Mobile Health
At Mobile Health, we understand the importance of convenient and reliable TB testing solutions for employers. Our experienced team will collaborate with you to develop a tailored TB testing program based on your industry, workplace risk factors, and regulatory requirements. From initial risk assessment to result documentation, we ensure seamless implementation and management of TB testing protocols. Whether you opt for on-site testing or utilize our network of 6,500 nationwide clinics, we can meet your needs.
If your occupational health needs include more than just TB testing, we can create a custom pre-employment screening package, so you can streamline your pre-employment testing services to one provider.
Regular TB testing is integral to workplace health and safety protocols, particularly in high-risk industries. By adhering to the CDC guidelines and employing appropriate testing methods, employers can effectively protect their employees from TB infection and maintain a healthy work environment.
Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive TB testing solutions and safeguard the well-being of your team.
