At what alcohol concentration level is a covered employee prohibited from performing safety-sensitive functions?

A covered employee is prohibited from performing safety-sensitive functions when their blood alcohol concentration level reaches 0.04 or higher. This threshold is established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is part of the regulations to ensure the safety of aviation operations. Safety-sensitive functions include activities such as operating an aircraft, performing flight crew duties, and engaging in ground handling tasks that could impact safety.

The rationale behind setting this specific level is to minimize the risk of impaired performance due to alcohol consumption. At levels above 0.04, the potential for cognitive and motor skill impairment increases, which is critical in safety-sensitive roles where precise judgment and coordination are vital for the safety of passengers, crew, and the aircraft itself.

The reason other levels are not valid restrictions is that 0.02, 0.05, and 0.06 do not meet the regulatory standard established by the FAA for prohibiting employees from performing such crucial roles in aviation safety. Therefore, recognizing the 0.04 threshold is essential for maintaining a safe operating environment in the aviation industry.