For how long must an employer maintain employee records on exposures and other medical records?

The correct response reflects the guidelines established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding the maintenance of employee records related to exposures and medical histories. Employers are required to keep these records for the duration of employment plus an additional 30 years. This extended timeframe is critical because it allows for monitoring of any long-term health effects that might arise from occupational exposures.

Keeping records for 30 years after the end of employment provides a safeguard for former employees, ensuring they can access documentation that may be vital for future health assessments, compensation claims, or legal matters related to workplace exposures. This requirement underlines the importance of monitoring workplace hazards and protecting employee health in the long term.

The other options do not align with OSHA regulations. Maintaining records for just five years after termination may not allow adequate time for potential long-term health effects to manifest, while indefinite maintenance of records may not be practical or required. The option of removing records at an employee's request does not provide the necessary protection for employees who may not realize the potential implications of their exposure until much later.