Why Some Employers Require a TB test for Employment
Many employers require a tuberculosis (TB) test for employment in order to ensure a safe workplace. TB tests help identify whether a person has been exposed to TB bacteria, even if they show no symptoms, which is common. This is crucial for protecting co-workers and vulnerable populations from the risk of infection.
Types of TB Tests
QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus
The QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (GFT) test is an advanced blood test designed for TB testing for employment. It measures the immune system’s response to TB bacteria and offers greater accuracy than the traditional PPD skin test. This is especially beneficial for individuals vaccinated with the BCG vaccine, as it avoids false positives and delivers faster, more reliable results.
You can order the QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus test online here at TrueHealthLabs.com. Some employers will even reimburse you for the cost of the TB test. Keep reading to find out how.
PPD Skin Test
The PPD skin test, also known as the tuberculin skin test, involves injecting a small amount of tuberculin into the skin. The test requires two visits: one for the injection and another to check for a reaction after 48-72 hours. While commonly used, it can produce false positives in individuals vaccinated with BCG so employers prefer the QuantiFERON TB test.
Jobs That Require a TB Test for Employment
Healthcare Jobs
Healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and lab technicians, must often undergo TB testing due to close contact with patients. This ensures they don’t unknowingly transmit tuberculosis in medical settings.
Education and Childcare Jobs
Teachers, childcare workers, and school staff need TB testing to protect children, who are more vulnerable to infections. Camps and daycare facilities often require a TB test for employment.
Social Services and Community Jobs
Social workers, homeless shelter staff, and corrections officers require TB tests because they frequently interact with at-risk populations or work in confined spaces where TB transmission is higher.
Military and Government Roles
Military personnel and government workers, such as immigration officers, often need TB tests, especially if they travel or interact with individuals from high-risk areas.
Other Jobs
Long-term care facility workers, flight crew members, and food service workers in healthcare settings may also be required to take a TB test to ensure public safety.
How to Get Your TB Test for Employment
The QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus test can be ordered with just a few clicks here on TrueHealthLabs.com. After purchasing, you can visit a local lab for your blood draw.
How to Get Your Company to Pay for Your TB Test
If your employer requires a TB test for employment, they might cover the cost. Start by asking your HR department or manager if they offer reimbursement for medical tests required for employment. Some companies already have policies in place to handle these expenses.
If your employer doesn’t provide automatic coverage, explain how the test benefits the workplace by ensuring safety and compliance with health regulations. Providing them with an order receipt from TrueHealthLabs.com (emailed to you after checkout), may also make it easier to get reimbursed.
Final Thoughts on TB Blood Work for Employment
TB testing for employment is a vital step to ensure workplace safety. Choosing the right test, such as the QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus, provides accurate results and peace of mind.
