U.S. Navy Color Vision Standards Revisited.
Abstract
Following a visit to Naval Reactors, BUMED-21 requested from the Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory information on evaluating "functional color vision" for nuclear field duty personnel. Color vision standards for other positions in the Navy have been considered in the past and are applicable to nuclear field duty and the tasks that require color vision. MANMED states that the Farnsworth Lantern (FALANT) is the standard Navy color perception test. It passes color vision normals and 30% of color vision defectives who have been shown to have sufficient color vision to perform required color tasks accurately. Prior research and deliberations have concluded that any relaxation of the requirement to pass the FALANT Is strongly not advisable. MANMED also states that waivers will be considered for those failing the FALANT who can demonstrate a functional ability to discern color associated with their work environment. Reasons why it is strongly not advisable to consider such waivers are discussed. BUMED-21 has stated that the pseudo-isochromatic plate (PIP) test is typically used as a functional test of color vision. With proper administration, however, only color vision normals will pass the PIP test, and anyone who fails the FALANT will fail the PIP. The PIP test, therefore, is a useful though more stringent test of color vision than the FALANT, but it is not useful as a functional test of color vision for persons who fail the FALANT. It is concluded that personnel who do not pass the FALANT should not be generally accepted for positions that involve color vision tasks.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 27, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA347110
Entities
People
- Kevin V. Laxar
Organizations
- Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory