CDME Module 4: Respiratory (2025)-Department Of Transportation. Notice Of Proposed Rulemaking On Evaluation Of Safety Sensitive Personnel For Moderate-To-Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Department Of Transportation. Notice Of Proposed Rulemaking On Evaluation Of Safety Sensitive Personnel For Moderate-To-Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea

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Pdf Summary

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) are proposing a rulemaking to address the safety concerns of moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among individuals in safety-sensitive positions in the transportation sector. This initiative seeks public comments on how prevalent OSA is among transportation workers and its potential consequences for transport safety.<br /><br />OSA is a condition characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can lead to daytime drowsiness and impaired alertness. This poses a critical risk for individuals in safety-sensitive roles, such as truck drivers and train operators, and has been linked to several transportation accidents investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).<br /><br />The notice outlines the existing initiatives by various Department of Transportation (DOT) administrations to manage OSA risks and invites feedback on the necessity and potential framework for regulatory action. The agencies are particularly interested in understanding the prevalence of OSA, cost implications, and potential benefits of regulatory oversight. They also seek input on suitable screening methods, diagnostic criteria, and the qualifications of medical practitioners who would oversee OSA evaluations.<br /><br />By gathering data and public input, FMCSA and FRA aim to assess the need for regulations that could include mandatory screening and treatment for OSA among transportation workers. This approach would ensure that workers with OSA receive proper diagnosis and treatment, potentially enhancing safety across the transportation sector.<br /><br />Comments on the proposed rulemaking must be submitted by June 8, 2016, through various channels listed in the document, including the federal rulemaking portal and fax or mail delivery. The input will guide the agencies in developing effective regulations addressing OSA's impact on transportation safety.

Keywords

FMCSA

FRA

obstructive sleep apnea

transportation safety

safety-sensitive positions

public comments

National Transportation Safety Board

Department of Transportation

regulatory oversight

mandatory screening