(Source: Anacostia Rail Holdings press release, January 29, 2018)
GLENDALE, N.Y. — New York & Atlantic Railway (NYA) started an Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) program January 23, 2018. Nearly 40 NYA locomotive engineers and conductors in New York City and Long Island, New York will be screened for OSA and, if needed, will receive treatment under the support and care of the railway’s medical team.
NYA President James Bonner said, “The detection and remediation of OSA will positively impact employee health and improve employee alertness for safety sensitive jobs.” OSA is a sleep disorder that causes fragmented sleep that often results in sleepiness, fatigue, and is associated with potentially serious health issues.
NYA is the first short-line freight railroad in the United States to institute an Obstructive Sleep Apnea screening and treatment program, according to the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association.
NYA’s medical services and safety teams will be working with Rocky Mountain Sleep Disorders Center to institute this OSA program.
“The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers & Trainmen – Long Island General Committee of Adjustment, the union that represents NYA’s engineers and conductors, has been supportive and helpful as NYA implements this valuable program,” Bonner added.