If a driver has a pulse oximetry reading below 93%, what is the recommendation regarding certification?

A pulse oximetry reading below 93% indicates that the driver has inadequate oxygen saturation, which can have significant implications for their ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. According to the medical guidelines for commercial driver certification, a reading under this threshold suggests the potential for respiratory compromise or other underlying health issues that could impair the driver’s function.

Disqualifying the driver is appropriate in this situation because the safety of the driver, other road users, and regulatory requirements must be prioritized. A pulse oximetry reading that is too low can signal conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, or other serious respiratory concerns, which might put the driver at risk of sudden incapacitation while driving.

Although referring the driver for further testing or requiring a follow-up exam may seem like viable options, these steps typically follow a preliminary assessment that indicates acceptable oxygen saturation. Certification should only be granted if the driver meets the necessary health standards, and in cases of low oxygen levels, immediate disqualification is the recommended course of action. Monitoring alone is insufficient when a driver's oxygen saturation poses immediate safety concerns.