Psychiatric and Behavioral Conditions

Psychiatric and behavioural conditions encompass a range of cognitive, emotional and behavioural disorders which can affect fitness for duty within the rail industry. These conditions include (but are not limited to):

• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar Disorder
• Depression
• Anxiety Disorders
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Personality Disorders
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Autism Spectrum Disorder

Effect of rail on condition

Some conditions associated with rail can exacerbate the symptoms of people who are currently or previously experiencing a psychiatric or behavioral condition. These include;

• Fatigue
• Sleep deprivation
• Stressful and traumatic events
• Social isolation
• Irregular access to medical care and surveillance

Effect of condition on rail

Psychiatric and behavioural disorders may be associated with disturbances of behaviour, cognitive abilities and perception, and therefore have the potential to affect performance of safety critical work.

Effect of treatment on rail

Various medications may have serious side effects that may interfere with their ability to discharge their duty. Impairment caused by medication may lead to a breach of Rail Safety National Law. Such effects may include, but not be limited to, drowsiness, slowed thinking, dizziness, loss of balance, increase or reduction in sleep.

Approach to fitness for duty

The impact of psychiatric and behavioural conditions varies depending on a person’s social circumstances job and coping strategies. Assessment of fitness for duty is individualised and relies on evaluation of the specific pattern of illness/potential impairments as well as the severity.

More likely to be fit for duty if;
You are more likely to be certified fit for duty if you can show good evidence that your condition has been fully diagnosed and successfully treated over a period and this is supported by a report from your treating doctor who is familiar with your case.

Less likely to be fit for duty if;
You are less likely to be certified fit for duty if you have: A psychiatric or behavioral disorder of sufficient severity that may impair behaviour, cognitive ability or perception required for Rail Safety Work.

If the examining doctor believes that there is significant risk of a previous psychiatric condition relapsing. You are unique
Every case is different. How you are affected will depend on a range of circumstances. The assessing Authorised Health Professional make decisions on a case-by-case basis. Decisions are based on the individual circumstances of the applicant under consideration.

Letter from your treating doctor
If you have a psychiatric or behavioural condition and are considering applying for a position at Metro Trains Melbourne, please bring any relevant information from your treating practitioner detailing your medical condition with you to your medical assessment.