A driver medical assessment, also known as a D4 medical or Group 2 medical assessment, is a health check required for commercial drivers in the UK. The assessment is designed to ensure that drivers are fit to operate vehicles safely and responsibly by helping to identify any medical conditions that may affect this. It is integral to help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on the road.
For some professional driving roles, for example HGV, PCV or LGV drivers, employees will need to undergo a medical examination when applying for their initial driving licence and upon its renewal. This is done using the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) medical examination, recorded on the D4 form, for a Group 2 licence. For employees undertaking other driving roles, including driving their own vehicles for business purposes, then it is advisable for you to undertake non-statutory health assessments to ensure that you are fit to drive.
To ensure the safety, productivity and wellbeing of drivers, employers must prioritise occupational health, with medical assessments and regular check-ins. At Choose Occupational Health, we understand the significance of driver wellbeing and offer comprehensive assessments to support the occupational health needs of HGV, PCV or LGV drivers. In line with DVLA requirements, we suggest you screen all existing and potential workplace transport operators for fitness before employment and at five-yearly intervals from age 45 and annually from age 65.
A driving licence medical involves the completion of the D4 form, a review of the driver’s medical history and then an examination of the driver’s health that includes vision and blood pressure checks. The employee will also be asked about their heart, diabetes, mobility, mental health, neurological functioning and whether they are currently taking any medication which may impact their ability to drive. Additional medical tests may be requested if necessary.
Ensuring that employees are fit to undertake all driving duties in their role is essential for the health and wellbeing of employees, customers and the public. Choose Occupational Health driver medicals will give employers the confidence to allocate driving roles to their staff and enable adjustments to be put in place to support individuals to remain in work where safe to do so.
Get in touch with the helpful team at Choose Occupational Health for more information about how we can help support your organisation in reducing risks and maintaining compliance with our workplace health surveillance services.