(a) Decompression sickness. The incidence of decompression
sickness during flight is considerably higher after exposure to an
environment (scuba diving) with higher than standard atmospheric pressure.
(b) Scuba diving or compressed air dives. Crew members will
not perform flying duties for a period of 24 hours following scuba diving or
compressed air dives. If operational requirements dictate, personnel may
fly during this period provided no symptoms have developed and they are
cleared by a flight surgeon to perform flying duties.
d. Other Conditions or Situations Causing Restriction. Other
conditions or situations that may be cause for restriction or may limit
flight duties include the use of tobacco, strenuous sporting activities and
corrective lenses for vision.
(1) Tobacco smoking: Crew members are discouraged from smoking at
all times, but those who do smoke should be warned of the special effects
smoking has on vision and flying at altitude. Smoking degrades the ability
of the eyes to adjust to reduced lighting (such as at night). Smoking also
increases the level of carbon monoxide in the blood which will compound the
hypoxic effect of flying at altitude. For example, the average cigarette
smoker will experience hypoxic effects equivalent to adding 5,000 feet to
his actual flight altitude.
(2) Strenuous sporting activities: The effects of strenuous physical
activity should be considered when assigning (or restricting) flight duties
immediately following physical activity. It should be remembered that what
may not be strenuous to some individuals may be strenuous to others.
(3) Corrective lenses for vision: Personnel requiring corrective
lenses to achieve 20/20 vision shall be restricted from flying duties unless
they are using the prescribed lenses. Contact lenses will not be worn by
crew members.
4.
MEDICAL SUBJECTS FOR SAFETY MEETINGS
As part of the aviation medicine program the flight surgeon is not only
required to monitor but also to conduct certain types of training.
Aeromedical subjects that would be of value to aviation units that should be
presented by the flight surgeon include the following:
a. Aviation Accidents in Which Human Factors Were Involved.
b. Proper Fitting and Use of Safety Clothing and Equipment.
c. Physiological Problems of Night Flight.
d. Perceptual Limitations.
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