Medical Standards

Department of the Interior Medical Standards Programs:
Medical standards establish the minimum medical fitness that the agency has determined to be necessary for safe and efficient job performance of those who perform safety sensitive, arduous and hazardous work as part of their job function [or] job series
Establishment of Medical Standards/Medical Clearance Program Ensures:
- Individuals in safety sensitive positions will be able to; perform the full range of essential functions of their jobs under the conditions in which those functions may be performed, which at times can be arduous as well as hazardous.
- Existing/preexisting medical conditions will not be; aggravated, accelerated, exacerbated, or permanently worsened as a result of carrying out the functions of the job.
- Demonstration of the strong commitment of DOI/agency to public and employee health and safety, and a strong commitment to maintaining the integrity of mission accomplishment.
- Consistency and uniformity in the medical evaluation of all applicants and incumbents
Regulatory & Policy Framework
- 5 CFR 339 Medical Qualification Determinations (Legal Basis for Federal Agencies to ESTABLISH Medical Clearance Programs, Medical Standards and Physical Requirements, UPDATED in Federal Register January 18, 2017
- Privacy Act of 1974 5 U.S.C. § 552a as amended (collection, use, and dissemination of personal information)
- 29 CFR 1630.14 (Medical examinations and inquiries specifically permitted)
- Rehabilitation Act (29 CFR 1614.203)
- Americans with Disabilities Act (42 USC 12101)
- Established policies and procedures under: DOI/agency HR, EEO, Safety, etc