Purpose

The medical clearance process has been developed (45 CFR Part 675) to mitigate, as reasonably possible, the inherent risks of deployment to the polar regions. The purpose of the medical screening is "to determine whether candidates for participation in the United States Antarctic Program (USAP) are physically qualified and psychologically adapted for assignment or travel to Antarctica." A similar process has been adapted for the Arctic.

Applicability

The physical qualification (PQ) policy applies to all Antarctic personnel - governmental, military, grantee, contractor, and distinguished visitors - proposed for deployment to USAP stations and vessels south of 60° south latitude. The policy also applies to personnel deploying to certain Arctic locations in Greenland, as described below. Other locations or circumstances may be identified by the Office of Polar Programs (OPP) Arctic Sciences section head and the OPP senior advisor for Polar Medical Programs.

  

Authority

The Director of OPP is the authority for the PQ determinations and the overall medical clearance process. This authority has been delegated to the OPP Safety and Occupational Health Officer. The current activities of OPP in relation to PQs are in the context of this authority.