The Department of Transportation and Public Works today updated the public as to progress being made to implement a new Medical Reporting System for all commercial vehicle drivers on Prince Edward Island.
The Province of Prince Edward Island, under the National Safety Code, announced the launch of a new Medical Reporting System for all commercial vehicle drivers (Class 1, 2, 3, and 4 licenses) on March 30, 2004.
Jurisdictions rely upon the National Safety Code Medical Standards for Drivers in determining whether or not a person is medically fit to operate a motor vehicle. This program is gradually being phased in, with each holder of a commercial drivers license being contacted by the Highway Safety Division as they are required to submit a medical certificate from a physician.
“I’m pleased with the progress made so far to phase this system in for our commercial drivers,” said Transportation and Public Works Minister Gail Shea. “Our staff have taken a flexible approach to the implementation of the program. This has been supported by the continued cooperation of the commercial driving sector which is having positive results.”
Under the National Safety Code Medical Standards for Driver’s, all holders of Classes 1, 2, 3, and 4 driver’s licenses are required to have a medical certificate completed by a physician.
The frequency and time intervals at which commercial drivers are required to file medical certificates are as follows: under the age of 45 – a medical exam is required every 5 years; between the ages of 45 and 65 – a medical exam is required every 3 years; over the age of 65 – a medical exam is required every year.
All Class 1 drivers have now been contacted and work is proceeding with integrating the next phase of the program, the Class 2 and Class 4 drivers. It is anticipated that Class 3 operators will be contacted in the new year.