Worker

A person who performs work for or on behalf of DOE, including a DOE employee, an independent contractor, a DOE contractor or subcontractor employee, or any other person who performs work at a DOE facility.

Worker exposure

The exposure of a worker to airborne beryllium that would occur if the worker were not using respiratory protective equipment. This is synonymous with "exposure."

Appendix B

Medical Protection Requirements

for Current and Prospective Beryllium Workers

B.1 Summary

LLNL recognizes the need for medical safeguards for beryllium workers at its facilities. LLNL offers medical examination and evaluation for LLNL employees and undertakes notification procedures in beryllium work areas and regulated beryllium work areas in support of workplace safety and health. LLNL strives to inform all employees in beryllium work areas and regulated beryllium work areas that exposures to airborne levels of beryllium, including those less than regulatory limits, may trigger sensitization among some individuals and that such sensitization has, in some cases, led to CBD. Programs and services offered to LLNL employees include tests for beryllium sensitivity and CBD, a medical examination program, and management assistance in seeking alternative assignments, when appropriate. The medical surveillance and notification requirement applies to current and prospective LLNL employees. Testing for beryllium sensitivity is recommended for employees assigned to beryllium work areas or regulated beryllium work areas.

B.2 Beryllium Sensitivity Tests

LLNL offers all LLNL workers who are beryllium-associated workers periodic tests for beryllium sensitivity. The tests are offered as a medical examination (either initial or periodic) that includes the Be-LPT or other blood tests for beryllium sensitivity as designated by the LLNL Medical Director. Workers who are, or may become, beryllium-associated workers are encouraged to accept either the Be-LPT or an equivalent designated test. Such workers shall be asked to acknowledge receiving information concerning beryllium sensitization and disease and being offered the beryllium sensitization test. The Health Services Department informs each individual of the test results, including the risks associated with developing CBD, if sensitivity to beryllium is shown. Test results are treated as confidential medical information and are released only with the individual's consent (consistent with current LLNL requirements) or as required by law, including 10 CFR 850 (Chronic Beryllium Prevention Program). Testing for beryllium sensitivity is recommended for all LLNL employees who are beryllium-associated workers and for any LLNL and UC employees transferring to an assignment in a beryllium work area or regulated beryllium work area.

The Be-LPT or equivalent test is offered as a part of a preplacement medical examination for new hires (i.e., accepted applicants) prior to beginning an assignment in a beryllium work area or regulated beryllium work area.

B.3 Reassignment Options

Described below are LLNL workers' options for reassignment from beryllium work.

B.3.1 Temporary Reassignment