FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine
Civil Aerospace Medical Institute

Report No: DOT/FAA/AM-83/11

Title and Subtitle: Color perception and ATC job performance

Report Date: July 1983

Authors: Pickrel EW, Convey JJ

Abstract: Current OMP policy and guidance requires demonstrated job-relatedness and reasonable accommodation in the application of physical qualifications. The OPM has accomplished an analysis of the Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) series and recommended development of functional color vision tests 'to reflect as closely as possible the functional color vision requirements of the specialty. If the Pseudoisochromatic plate (PIP) test is retained for prescreening to identify applicants for whom followup functional performance testing or reasonable accommodation is necessary, its use also must be standardized.'

This research is directed toward accomplishment of those recommendations. Standard Pseudoisochromatic (PIP) plate test was validated against performance of ATCS tasks, and it demonstrated job relatedness and reasonable accommodation for application of physical qualification standards. A functional color vision test was created, but further development and validation would be needed before its operational use, and procurement would be very costly as compared to the standard PIP tests that are readily available to medical examiners.

Key Words: Air traffic controllers, Color vision standards, Vision, Performance tests, Simulation

No. of Pages: 25