If a medical test is performed to determine if an employee is prone to certain injuries that may be sustained in connection with job tasks, that's one thing. But, the findings of many other genetic tests don't have any bearing on a person's ability to perform particular work tasks and are none of the employer's business. Employees also have some personal responsibility to find out what tests are being performed on their samples. What may seem like a normal battery of tests to some, may not be perceived as job related to others. Of course companies want to hire the best people possible to perform their necessary job functions, but there are limits to how far they should go to make this distinction.
Genetic testing is an invasion of privacy.
It unnecessarily profiles people in ways that have nothing to do with their job. We think this sets a dangerous precedent for employers to enter this area of their employees' personal medical data and private lives. Post your thoughts in The Public Forum. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.