DOT Physical examination is a vital job eligibility criterion for commercial drivers. The US Department of Transportation mandates DOT Physical checkups for commercial vehicle operators. The primary motive of DOT physical is to ensure commercial drivers’ physical, emotional, and mental fitness. The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration mandates DOT Physical exams for public safety. Whether an individual is a commercial bus driver, truck driver, or an airplane flight, the DOT Physical is mandatory. DOT Physicals consist of several physical and mental examinations to assess the fitness level. Additionally, the checkup includes comprehensive alcohol and drug testing.
Why Consider a DOT Physical Checkup?
Operating a commercial motor vehicle is not an easy task. With intense work schedules, exhaustion, continuous night shifts, stress, and long working hours, a commercial vehicle operator is at risk and puts others at stake. Anybody showing interest in the role of a commercial vehicle operator is not eligible for the job. Drivers should have a CMV (Commercial Motor Vehicle) certificate and pass the DOT Physicals.
DOT Physical is an all-encompassing health assessment. The motive of the examination is to recognize and eliminate medical conditions and reasons interfering with the safe handling of commercial vehicles. Drivers should have optimal physical health with good judgment, quick reflexes, high alertness, etc.
DOT Physical includes vision and hearing screening assuring commercial vehicle operators have excellent vision and hearing capacities. Passing the exam ensures safe vehicle operations and avoids accidents. Screening health conditions, like cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, epilepsy, and diabetes, are pivotal in eliminating medical emergencies during driving. Lastly, DOT drug and alcohol testing helps to minimize driving under the influence of alcohol and drug intoxication.
Frequency of DOT Physical?
In the majority of cases, DOT physical certificates are valid for two years. In some cases, health conditions, like diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, hernia, etc., mandate a commercial vehicle driver to take the examination frequently. Such medical conditions mandate quarterly and annual screening. If the candidate improves and maintains his health over time, his DOT Physical becomes valid for two years.
Who Needs DOT Physical Exam?
Commercial vehicle operators who handle the following tasks undertake the DOT Physical exams.
- Average vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds and more
- Transporting toxic and dangerous chemicals and other substances
- Carrying a minimum of eight passengers
- Transporting a minimum of fifteen passengers, paid or unpaid
The Key Benefits of the DOT Physical Exam?
Cater to Job Requirements
When an individual plans to join the transportation industry, having a DOT Physical certificate, he is eligible to operate commercial vehicles. The DOT medical certificate shows the physical and mental fitness of the individual to cater to safety-sensitive tasks in the industry. Having a DOT Physical certificate makes him stand out from others, and the job offer is easy.
Guarantees Public Safety
Sometimes, medical conditions fail to show symptoms unless there is medical screening. The same applies to hearing and eyesight issues. Keeping up with the DOT physical requirements is ideal to identify health issues and start early treatment. Medical emergencies while driving risk the life of the driver and others around.
Eliminates Liabilities
In case of an accident, collision, or other unfortunate events, whether the individual is at fault or not, DOT physical medical cards can eliminate liabilities. Having an up-to-date DOT Physical certificate helps to eliminate the risks of liability and verify the authenticity of a commercial driver.
Things included in a DOT Physical Examination
The DOT Physical incorporates an inclusive review of the physical exam and medical history by a certified DOT medical expert. During the DOT Physical checkup, the medical expert screens
- Vision
- Hearing potential
- Blood pressure
- Blood sugar levels
- Skin
- Weight and height
- Reflexes
- Neurological analysis
- Sleep apnea
- Epilepsy
- Seizure episodes
- Hernias
- Breathing and lungs health
Conclusion
The above analysis shows DOT physical exam is necessary for the commercial transportation industry. Commercial vehicle operators should take physical examinations to rule out any medical or health conditions interfering with the smooth and efficient operations of commercial motor vehicles. It is necessary for public safety, compliance with DOT compliances, and eliminating liability cases. Alcohol and drug testing is a component of DOT Physical checkups. It indicates that drivers lose their jobs permanently if found driving under the influence of alcohol and drug on multiple occasions.