June 10, 2002

Re:  Physical and Psychological Examinations of Members
of the Service by the Medical Division in Connection
With the World Trade Center Rescue and Recovery Effort

We are informed that the Medical Division is conducting physical and psychological examinations of members who have been assigned to the recovery effort at the World Trade Center, the Staten Island Landfill, the Temporary Morgue, and related sites.  All members of the Emergency Service Unit will be required to participate, which will satisfy the annual testing requirement by OSHA for employees who handle hazardous materials.   In addition, the Chief of Department’s office has also identified non-Emergency Service Unit members who were most frequently assigned to the above listed sites for inclusion in the testing.

A ranking member of the Medical Division informed us initially that the examinations would involve among other things, mandatory blood testing and psychological evaluations.  We immediately sent a letter to James F. Hanley, the Commissioner of Labor Relations, demanding bargaining over these issues.

In response to our letter, the Department notified us that the testing would be encouraged, but would not be mandatory and that no disciplinary action or other form of retaliation would be taken against any member for refusing to submit to such testing. 

If you experience any problems related to this testing, please contact your PBA Delegate or borough representative immediately.