1. Tell us a little bit about your role and how your role contributes to the overall mission of Examinetics.
As an Occupational Health Specialist, my role is to conduct employee health screenings, such as hearing testing and pulmonary function tests, for companies across the United States. Along with my fellow OHS “techs," I am on the frontline when I visit clients. In many cases, we are the only person to meet the local site client, so we are the face of the company. I strive to exceed expectations and promote a positive opinion of Examinetics.
2. How does your role contribute to the health and safety of America’s workforce?
The most common workplace injury is noise-induced hearing loss. As a health specialist, I'm responsible for helping our clients stay compliant with regulations for hearing conservation programs. In short, this includes the mandatory hearing test as well as education on the importance of hearing protection and additional training using hearing protection. Our clients are acknowledging that this education is important for their worker’ safety, and it ensures they stay compliant and follow the safety precautions established by their work environment.
I follow all safety rules including the use of hearing protection devices when I arrive on client sites. I carry my own pair of HPDs at all times and I protect my hearing on and off the job.
3. What's the most rewarding part of your job?
Two words: traveling and people. The opportunity I have as an OHS is truly rewarding. I get to travel and explore constantly while helping people in the process. I truly love meeting my clients, and I enjoy the impact I make on their health and safety.
Some of my much loved cities include Minneapolis, Houston and Chicago. I've found a common thread among all these cities: delicious cuisine and amazing culture.
My favorite place is New Orleans. The people there are very friendly and love to talk about their culture. While there, I always get the crab boil. A crab boil has crab legs, corn, potatoes, shrimp, sausage all married together in a blend of seasoning. It's a beautiful and fascinating city.
4. What tips and tricks have you learned from working on the road?
I always bring supplies when starting a new job. Our mobile units and job sites are well equipped, but It’s always good to be prepared since you never know what may arise. Also, I like to pack non-perishable food items in my suitcase to cut down on the number of trips to the store and to save money as well.
Building great relationships is the key to success for anyone working remote or in the field. Specifically for our role, it's important to form relationships with other technicians, your supervisor and the scheduling teams. I think it significantly helps a technician on the road, especially if they are new to working in the field. By building these bonds, you have a resource for help but you also become a resource for someone else. It’s a way to stay connected to the wider organization.
5. What are the challenges of living on the road? What are the perks?
As a road warrior, one of the biggest challenges includes spending long periods of time without my family. Our schedules can be demanding with long stretches of time away from home. You need to find balance and ways to prioritize and stay connected to home.
The best perk for me is definitely the opportunity to travel across the country. I've experienced amazing places and have been to places I never thought I would go. My mind has opened up to new ideas. I have tried crazy food, and have fun when I’m on the road doing my job.
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This is business-to-business information intended for EHS (environmental health and safety) professionals and not intended for the final consumer. Companies should check the local regulatory status of any claim according to their individual needs, requirements and intended use.