Height/BMI

[Frothy_B]

Hi all,

Apologies if this thread has been done many times before. I've searched and the threads that discuss height are a couple of years old at least, so I figured I would start a new one to see what people's current experiences are, or if people are aware if the guidance has changed.

Inspired by the BMI thread currently ongoing, it seems the BMI of 33 "cut off" for applications is now more guidance than a hard and fast rule? Does the same now apply to height with the 6'6" cutoff? I know there are taller drivers than that, but my understanding was they were employed *before* the restrictions came into place?

I'm between 6'7 and 6'9 depending on how I'm being measured, so I tend to go with 6'8. My BMI is also over 33, but I can at least work on that, height is pretty unchangeable.

At what point in an application, whether for driver or signaller, would these things come into effect? Given the large number of applicants, are recruiting managers likely to see height on the initial application and just throw it out in the first sift, given there are hundreds of people within the height range they can choose from instead? Or does it only come into play at the medical stage, so you have the potential to pass all the various tests first?

 

[Efini92]

Does the application ask for height or weight?

 

[Frothy_B]

Does the application ask for height or weight?

I've never actually applied for a driver position because I always believed it was a non-starter due to my height in the first place, that's why I'm asking how much of a factor it is before I get my hopes up and start looking down that path.

It wasn't asked on the Signaller role I applied for last year if I remember correctly.

 

[Efini92]

I've never actually applied for a driver position because I always believed it was a non-starter due to my height in the first place, that's why I'm asking how much of a factor it is before I get my hopes up and start looking down that path.

It wasn't asked on the Signaller role I applied for last year if I remember correctly.

I know a couple of drivers a similar height to what you’ve asked. As far as I know it’s not a barrier to entry but look at the TOC’s you’re thinking of applying for. You wouldn’t want to spend a great deal of time in a 153/170 or something similar.

 

[Ducatist4]

The medical is the very last step in the process.

 

[Horizon22]

The medical is - unfortuantely for you - the last step of the process. However, it might be picked up by a hiring manager or you could raise the question if you reached the DMI stage. There appears to be an "advisory maximum" of 6'4", but that doesn't appear set in stone.

 

[TreacleMiller]

Don't worry, id you're in generally good health you'll be ok.

BMI of 33 is fine.

From my medical for LNER i can say it takes into consideration the following:

1. Hearing
2. Vision
3. Medical history
4. Heart / ECG
5. Blood pressure
6. Balance
7. Memory
8. Diabetes

As part of the general medical assessment they WILL weigh you and you'll have your BMI recorded. Thats it. I asked if there was a limit and was told no, its your health and mobility that's assessed. HOWEVER a very high BMI means you're more likely to be diabetic, mobility issues and have a blood pressure concern etc.

For what its worth my BMI on the day was 33 and on the day I weighed 104kg. I passed without it even being discussed.

I had convinced myself i would be a diabetic mess with massive blood pressure and poor hearing. I had no reason to be nervous!

Height could be a concern but its to do with cab ergonomics etc. You'll not get booted from an application for being tall unless they put it as a pre-application statement like some operators do with laser eye surgery.

 

[GLENMAYE77]

I’m 6’7” and a driver. The only company I’ve seen with height restrictions on their adverts is TPE. However I don’t know how enforceable this would be in todays society with possible discrimination challenges.

86’s where a bit of a squeeze but I’ve had no other problems.

 

[Frothy_B]

Thankyou all for the replies.

 

[Kraken]

You’ve had some good answers for driving, just to say that your BMI won’t be a problem for signalling either if that’s what you want to go for. Mine is 35 and I had no bother. They test your mobility at the medical which for me involved being able to stand up from kneeling without putting my hands down or holding onto anything, they also tested how far I could swivel round from the waist so as long as you can do all that then it’s game on.