Why Are Many Companies Opting for Pre-Employment Physicals?

There are many tools that employers across the globe use to screen candidates.

Some of these tools include various tests which assess mental traits. Creativity, personality, skills, and behavior are all studies with the HiQ analytics software.

Many companies also rely on resume software, such as the Applicant Tracking system, also known as ATS, like Resumator. The studies may even look into the details within a or traditional cover letter.

Depending on the position, many companies sift through applicants by testing them before submitting a resume.

One of the most recent tools to come on the scene for employers to assess their potential hires is Pre-Employment Physicals. The physicals join biometrics screenings as trending tests in the business world to try and improve companies. Often used as lab tests for drugs, these evaluations dig much deeper. A Pre-Employment Physical can give both psychological analysis and physical strength tests.

Employers aren’t even limited to one kind of exam. The kind of testing depends on the corporation and the position they wish to fill.

For example, psychological evaluations prove versatile for many field. An employer looking to find a financial analyst or doctor could find benefits in these tests. The same goes for other differing positions, like air traffic controller or graphic designer.

The other kind of exam that an employer might need is a physical exam measuring strength, endurance, energy and stamina. Giving a glimpse of physical abilities, these tests are excellent for physically demanding jobs. These positions can range from heavy lifting to standing for hours at a time.

Today, most employment physicals are likely to include lab work for drug testing.

So, why are employers requesting these physicals? More importantly, how are they benefiting from them?

One primary reason employers are using these physical exams is because more individuals are being diagnosed with musculoskeletal diseases, like Degenerative Disc Disease.

Companies also use these tools to reduce absenteeism in the workplace. Employers are looking to avoid the millions of dollars spent on medical insurance and paid sick days. These diseases can cause missed work days or an injury on the job. To combat those costs, employers are turning to Pre-Employment Physicals.

Hiring managers may also determine who the best candidate is for a particular position with help from these tests. They are often looking for any step to improve and increase productivity levels within the company.

More than a baseline test, employers are using the physicals to try and improve their company.

Do you have other questions about tests to improve health at your company? Passport Health can help! Give us a call at or fill out a contact form for more information.

Written for Passport Health by Sabrina Cortes. Sabrina is a freelance writer with a Bachelor’s Degree from Georgian Court University. She currently lives in the Smokey Mountains of western North Carolina.