Marsha Stevenson 
Commercial drivers are in a different league than the average driver on the road. Their job entails spending much of their time on the road, they have to be physically active and also they have to act fast especially in an emergency situation. They should get medical check-ups from time to time so that they check whether they are safe to continue working without endangering their lives or the lives of others.
This article talks about why medical assessments are important for commercial drivers and employers.
Why Medical Assessments Matter for Commercial Drivers
Commercial driving entails a lot of endurances. These include both physical and mental. It calls for drivers to drive large vehicles most of the time under some form of pressure. This is why drivers undergo routine medical examinations to ascertain that they are capable of handling these top jobs and to reduce the likelihood of an accident resulting from a health episode.
The risks are especially high in the commercial sector because a driver’s health determines road safety. Some of the effects include fatigue, poor vision or other health complications that may have an implication to the driver and other road users.
Reducing Health-Related Risks
Commercial drivers often face health challenges, including:
- Fatigue from long hours on the road.
- Higher risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues..
- Obesity or weight gain from decreased physical activity.
These problems can be diagnosed through medical tests. Check-ups include basic tests, which enable drivers to know their health status and treat ailments that may be developing in their bodies. So, early identification of complications not only assists drivers to avoid cases of an accident resulting from the complications but also enhances their quality of life.
Key Components of a Commercial Driver Medical Assessment
A thorough medical assessment for commercial drivers includes several key tests:
Vision and Hearing Tests
Absence of well functioning eyesight and hearing is dangerous and such persons should not drive. Vision tests check for such problems like field vision, focus, or color and which can cause problems when driving during evening period or during rush hours. Basic hearing tests including audiometry prove that drivers have the ability to hear important sounds such as sirens and horns which are critical when on the road.
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Health
Employment pressure is high in most business organizations and this puts pressure on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
A driver’s heart rate, blood pressure and lung function should be tested, particularly if the driver is over 50 years old or has a history of heart trouble. Potential risks help to keep the drivers awake and able to withstand extended periods of driving on the road.
Musculoskeletal Health
Sedentary work and or tasks that involve repetitive movements increase one’s risk of developing backache, joint pain or limited joint mobility. A musculoskeletal examination guarantees that drivers do not develop or sustain conditions that make it impossible to operate large vehicles safely. This helps avoid chronic diseases and improve the level of performance.
Conclusion
A medical assessment has a significant role in protecting the health of commercial drivers, their organizations, and the general population. Thus, health issues should be considered at an early stage, so that drivers perform their work successfully and employers reduce possible risks while operating.
To get more information regarding the process and the advantage of the medical assessment for commercial drivers visit Logic Health’s resources on driver assessments. Emphasis on the regular health check-ups will help to have safer roads, healthier drivers and a more coherent workforce.
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