The DVLA in the UK has recently amended its regulations for drivers who suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) (see The Mover, April 2011, page 42). The new wording focusses on ‘excessive sleepiness having, or likely to have, an adverse effect on driving’ and therefore whether a driver is safe to continue to drive. Previously the DVLA had used a measurement made during a sleep study that does not always suggest that sleepiness is affecting driving.

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome (OSAS) – OSA with symptoms - causes sleepiness and can be a risk factor for road traffic accidents, as driver reactions are impaired. It is of particular concern with commercial vehicle drivers who spend a long time at the wheel and tend to live a sedentary lifestyle. Following the introduction of the EU Directive in January 2016, there was much confusion about when a driver, thought to have sleep apnoea, had to notify the DVLA and this resulted in some losing their licences unnecessarily, albeit temporarily. Nigel Base, The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) Commercial Vehicle Manager, said: “This is good news for our industry and is a much clearer and fairer way to assess whether driving can continue.”

For more information go to http://osapartnershipgroup.co.uk/osa-and-driving.html

Photo: The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has welcomed the recent amendment on regulations regarding Obstructive Sleep Apnoea by the DVLA.