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Feds Inching Toward Implementing Possible Sleep Apnea Screening for Truckers
Soon, the federal government may require all commercial truckers, bus drivers and railroad workers to undergo screening for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a disease that can lead to drowsy driving and increase the risk of crashes. The Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) are taking the first step toward that potential rule, which could also mandate treatment for those diagnosed, by gathering public comments until July 8.
“It is imperative for everyone’s safety that commercial motor vehicle drivers and train operators be fully focused and immediately responsive at all times,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said in a statement in March, when the DOT announced the proposal. “DOT strongly encourages comment from the public on how to best respond to this national health and transportation safety issue.”