Here's a new one for me...and I need help quick!

A technician on an NSF grant is supposed to be leaving for the Antarctic
for field work in a week.  Physicals are required.  He has just been
informed by NSF that ASA (Antarctic Support Associates), NSF's
contractor for logistical support in the Antarctic), has determined the
technician to be "NPQ" (Not Physically Qualified).  However, his doctor
says he is fine to go.

There is a waiver process at NSF but the institution has to sign a
statement supporting the waiver.  That paperwork is on its way to me
now.  A panel of doctors retained by NSF will review the waiver request
and make the final determination.  The instructions with the waiver
package indicate that the NSF physician review may take up to eight
weeks--but the technician's plane leaves in just one!!

The PI is supportive of the technician going; he is definitely not the
type to put another person in jeopardy just to get the research done.  I
have concerns about protecting this individual's privacy--I don't want
his medical information being reviewed by a bunch of us on campus or
anyone else who do not have a definite need to know--and only then with
if he has given his consent.

If anyone out there has any experience with this kind of situation,
please post a short note to the list.  I would like to learn more about
this issue, hear about how you handled the situation, and hear your
opinion about what the institution is exposing itself to by signing the
waiver.  about it.  Please also include your name and telephone
number--I may want to call you for additional input!

As always, thanks!
Barbara

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Barbara H. Gray                                     Telephone:  843-953-5673 (Office)
Director of Research and                                           843-953-5885 (Direct)
 Grants Administration                            Fax:  843-953-6577
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