What documents must be maintained for employees exposed to toxic substances?

The requirement to maintain medical records and exposure records for employees exposed to toxic substances is based on OSHA regulations designed to ensure worker health and safety. Specifically, these records provide crucial information about the nature and extent of the employees' exposure to hazardous materials.

Medical records include details of health assessments, diagnoses, and treatment related to toxic exposures, which are essential for monitoring the long-term health effects and ensuring proper medical care. Exposure records document the levels of toxic substances employees have encountered, which can help in identifying trends or patterns of exposure within a workplace. This documentation is vital for both employees and employers to manage health risks effectively and ensure compliance with health standards.

In contrast, employee performance evaluations, timekeeping records, and safety training certifications, while important in their own right, do not specifically address the health implications of exposure to toxic substances. Therefore, maintaining accurate medical and exposure records is a critical responsibility to safeguard the welfare of employees who might be affected by hazardous conditions in the workplace.