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Use of prescription medicines/drugs

A member has forwarded its recently-issued safety reminder concerning the use of prescription medicines.

Sometimes, employees who are under treatment of a qualified doctor may be prescribed to take medicine(s) that may impair work performance or weaken reflexes, especially in the event of an emergency.

  • While under medical treatment, it is the responsibility of all such employees to make the vessel master or diving supervisor aware of such a situation/condition.
  • It is also the responsibility of the master/supervisor to enquire of new/transferred employees during familiarisation whether they are under medical treatment/taking prescription drugs. The purpose of identifying such personnel is for the master/supervisor to be aware of their limitations in work performance and in the event of any emergency, thus preventing a potential accident.

Safety Event

Published: 1 March 2004
Download: IMCA SF 02/04

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