If there are questions about adverse effects of prescribed medication, whom should employees consult before reporting for duty?

If there are questions about adverse effects of prescribed medication, whom should employees consult before reporting for duty?

• A. Company Medical Officer
• B. Supervisor
• C. Family Doctor
• D. Union Steward

Answer: (A)

When there are questions about adverse effects from prescribed medication, you should check with the company medical authority before reporting for duty. The Company Medical Officer is the designated medical resource for railroad employees and understands the job’s safety demands and the company’s medical standards. They can assess whether a medication might impair alertness, reaction, judgment, or physical ability and decide if you’re fit to work, need medical clearance, or should be placed on modified duties. They can also coordinate with your own physician if needed, while keeping medical information appropriate to safety requirements. A supervisor isn’t a medical evaluator, a family doctor isn’t familiar with the company’s safety rules, and a union steward is a representative, not a medical clinician. So, the person to consult before reporting for duty is the Company Medical Officer.

When there are questions about adverse effects from prescribed medication, you should check with the company medical authority before reporting for duty. The Company Medical Officer is the designated medical resource for railroad employees and understands the job’s safety demands and the company’s medical standards. They can assess whether a medication might impair alertness, reaction, judgment, or physical ability and decide if you’re fit to work, need medical clearance, or should be placed on modified duties. They can also coordinate with your own physician if needed, while keeping medical information appropriate to safety requirements. A supervisor isn’t a medical evaluator, a family doctor isn’t familiar with the company’s safety rules, and a union steward is a representative, not a medical clinician. So, the person to consult before reporting for duty is the Company Medical Officer.