WASHINGTON -- The National Transportation Safety Board wants the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to begin a program to identify commercial drivers at high risk for obstructive sleep apnea, and if treatment is required, show that it is has been conducted.

The NTSB issued the same recommendations to the Federal Transit Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration.

In issuing its recommendation for commercial drivers, the NTSB noted that the "relative risk of accident involvement for individuals with (obstructive sleep apnea) is clearly elevated and quite clearly associated with the untreated disease."

FMCSA research has suggested that at least 10 percent of commercial drivers have at least moderate obstructive sleep apnea.

The NTSB wants the agency to identify these drivers and show, when necessary, they are effectively treated through the medical certification process of evaluation, before being granted unrestricted medical certification.

"Commercial motor vehicle drivers at risk for obstructive sleep apnea is a safety issue we take seriously," said FMCSA spokesman Duane DeBruyne. "The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is already considering a rule to tighten its standards for medical certification of commercial drivers."

The FMCSA has a question on its medical certification that asks about sleep disorders.

It also offers this under heading "Is Sleep Apnea Disqualifying?"

"Drivers should be disqualified until the diagnosis of sleep apnea has been ruled out or has been treated successfully," and "A driver with a diagnosis of (probable) sleep apnea or a driver who has Excessive Daytime Somnolence should be temporarily disqualified."

Last year, the FMCSA Medical Review Board recommended the FMCSA require screening for obstructive sleep apnea for drivers with a Body Mass Index over 30. The agency has not acted on the recommendation.

The NTSB also wants the FMCSA to develop and disseminate guidance for commercial drivers, employers and physicians regarding the identification and treatment of individuals at high risk for obstructive sleep apnea.