b'O P E R A T I O N SR O U T I N EANNUAL MEDICAL EXAMS A sample recommendation of an annual medical exam, Annual medical exams for fire fighters are important to detectProviders Guide to Firefighter Medical Evaluations, is included in cancer and other health conditions early because fire fightersAppendix C. The IAFF/IAFC Joint Wellness Fitness Initiative also are exposed to hazardous materials and chemicals on a regularprovides an annual recommended physical for incumbent fire basis, which increases the risk of developing various healthfighters. Specific tests, such as red and white blood cell counts, issues, including cancer. Early detection through regular check- heavy metals screenings and cancer screenings, can assist with ups allows for prompt treatment and can improve outcomes.early detection of many common cancers seen in the fire service Additionally, regular physicals can help identify and addresstoday. These simple exams can determine if cancer is a risk, as well other health problems, such as cardiovascular disease,as if it is present. Having this annual exam is imperative to ensure respiratory issues and musculoskeletal injuries, all of whichearly detection and aggressive action to address any problems.are common among fire fighters. By monitoring ones healthIt is important to include retired fire fighters alongside regularly, fire fighters can take proactive steps to maintain theiractive members for annual exams and bloodwork to ensure their physical and mental well-being. continued health and well-being. In Washington State, presumptive Medical exams are important for a few other reasons: illness laws typically extend up to five years from retirement, WAC 296-842 mandates respiratory protection if a member isacknowledging the potential long-term effects of their prior entering an atmosphere with toxic products of combustion. WACexposures to hazardous substances and stressful conditions on their 296-842-14005 requires a medical evaluation prior to being fittedoverall health. To adhere to best practices, it is recommended that for respiratory protection.retired fire fighters undergo the same medical exams, bloodwork WAC 296-62-07314 requires a medical exam for any employeeand behavioral health screenings as active members.prior to being assigned to work in an area that may release carcinogens. Fire fighters often enter unknown carcinogenic environments, including structure fires, car fires or dumpster fires. In addition to the health conditions covered in this report, there These exams are to be provided at no cost to the employeeis increasing information from research studies demonstrating and should be provided annually after an initial examination. Theadverse reproductive effects in both male and female fire fighters. While addressing these reproductive outcomes is outside the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 1582 alsoscope of this current manual, many of the best practices detailed provides guidance for annual medical exams. in this report, such as exposure reduction, also should help prevent adverse reproductive effects.28'