According to OSHA, who must establish a medical surveillance program?

The requirement for a medical surveillance program is specifically aimed at employees who are issued respirators, as outlined by OSHA regulations. This is primarily due to the need to monitor workers who may be exposed to airborne contaminants, including asbestos, while performing their tasks.

When employees are provided with respirators, it indicates that their work environment poses a potential health risk that necessitates additional health monitoring. The medical surveillance program is designed to ensure that these employees receive appropriate health assessments, including baseline evaluations and regular check-ups, to detect any work-related health issues at an early stage. This is crucial because employees' ongoing health is directly related to their exposure levels and the effectiveness of the respirators in preventing harmful inhalation of hazardous substances.

In contrast, other choices such as all employees in building management, all contractors on site, and only those working with hazardous materials do not encompass the specific focus on respirator use and the associated health risks that necessitate a formal medical surveillance program. Employees in building management and contractors may not necessarily be exposed to the same level of hazardous airborne materials or may be involved in areas where respirators are not required. Thus, the emphasis on respirator users ensures that the most vulnerable employees are monitored adequately for their health and safety.