Are employers allowed to require job applicants to undergo medical tests or examinations?

In Washington, employers are allowed to require job applicants to undergo medical tests or examinations as long as they meet certain criteria. This includes having a “reasonable belief” that the test or exam is necessary to determine the applicant’s ability to perform the job duties and will not cause the applicant to become unfairly disadvantaged based on a protected characteristic. Employers must also ensure that any medical tests or examinations they require are job-related and necessary for the business operation and provide reasonable accommodations for disabled applicants. The tests must be administered in a fair and nondiscriminatory manner. Additionally, employers are prohibited from using medical test or examination results for the purpose of discriminating against an applicant based on their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, citizenship, or veteran status. In summary, employers in Washington may require job applicants to undergo medical tests or examinations so long as it meets certain criteria related to job-related requirements and nondiscriminatory practices. Employers must also make reasonable accommodations for disabled applicants, and the use of test results for discriminatory purposes is prohibited.

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Are employers allowed to require job applicants to undergo medical tests or examinations?

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