HGV MEDICAL EXAM GUIDELINES FOR HGV DRIVERS
SPECIALISED HGV TRAINING
Here is a list of some of the things a physician is required to check in during the HGV medical
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EYESIGHT The eyesight requirement for HGV drivers is a bit more stringent than it is for car drivers. You will need to be able to see adequately out of each eye individually, with or without corrective lenses. If you have a complete loss of vision in one eye, you may still be eligible to drive professionally if you can pass the vision test.
NEUROLOGICAL PROBLEMS Neurological problems can have serious consequences for any driver. A physician will examine the HGV student and ask questions relating to things such as epilepsy, seizures, blackouts, memory problems, Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease, narcolepsy and cataplexy, stroke, prior brain surgery, or any chronic neurological condition such as multiple sclerosis.
MENTAL HEALTH HGV drivers must also be in good mental health. Doctors will want to discuss all sorts of mental health issues including depression, hospitalisation for psychiatric issues, dementia, cognitive impairment, etc.
ALCOHOL AND DRUGS It is illegal to operate an HGV with drugs or alcohol in the system. Knowing that it is almost impossible for a chronic alcoholic or drug user to hold an HGV driving job. During the HGV medical, a doctor will look for any signs of chronic drug and alcohol use.
DIABETES There may be concerns with drivers who need regular insulin to control diabetes. The condition will not automatically disqualify a student from becoming a professional driver, but his or her diabetes must be well-managed in order to proceed.
HEART CONDITIONS Even the most benign heart condition can lead to serious problems in the future. Therefore, doctors check students for any potential heart conditions including murmurs, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), aneurysms, and the like.
SLEEP DISORDERS A leading cause of serious accidents among HGV drivers is a lack of sleep. Therefore, the HGV medical exam includes looking for signs and symptoms of sleep disorders. This is one area in which candidates must be especially honest. A sleep disorder does not necessarily mean automatic disqualification. As long as the disorder can be managed, the candidate should be able to proceed.
This list of conditions may make it seem as if a candidate must be a perfect physical specimen in order to be licenced as an HGV driver.
By www.hgvtraining.co.uk
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