OPAM Workshop: DOT FMCSA NRCME Course-263074

263074 - Article 10
Pdf Summary
The American Osteopathic College of Occupational and Preventive Medicine focuses on hearing standards for drivers, with specific guidance from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). Dr. Naomi F. Wriston, President of AOCOPM, outlines key procedures for hearing assessments during medical examinations for commercial drivers.

<strong>Learning Objectives and Key Procedures:</strong>

1. <strong>Standards and Testing</strong>: 
   - Drivers must be able to hear a forced whisper at five feet, or have an average hearing loss not exceeding 40 decibels in the better ear at specific frequencies (500, 1000, 2000 Hz), with or without a hearing aid.
   - The forced whisper test involves the medical examiner (ME) whispering words or numbers five feet away from the driver while covering one ear at a time.

2. <strong>Audiometry</strong>: 
   - Audiometric tests must conform to ANSI Standard Z24.5-1951, potentially utilizing hearing aids.
   - Both ears are tested to ensure at least one passes the hearing standard.

3. <strong>Health History and Physical Examination</strong>:
   - MEs should inquire about any ear disorders, symptoms, or use of otic preparations.
   - Physical examinations should identify issues such as scarring or occlusion affecting certifications.

4. <strong>Certification Decisions</strong>: 
   - Drivers passing one hearing test in one ear can be certified.
   - Those requiring hearing aids must use them while driving.
   - Scenarios show how different results influence certification status, emphasizing the need for clear record-keeping.

5. <strong>FMCAs Guidelines and Exemptions</strong>: 
   - Additional guidelines apply, including non-certification for conditions like uncontrollable vertigo or Meniere’s Disease.
   - Exemptions require certification that is contingent upon obtaining relevant permissions.

Through these outlined standards and testing procedures, the AOCOPM ensures that medical examiners accurately and consistently evaluate commercial drivers' ability to hear, maintaining both safety and regulatory compliance.
Keywords
AOCOPM
hearing standards
FMCSRs
commercial drivers
hearing assessments
audiometry
certification decisions
FMCA guidelines
medical examinations
hearing aids