The Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates the safety-sensitive workforce. Employee drug testing is part of the protocol. Does a drug test result ever present a DOT safety concern? The DOT drug testing regulations stipulate that test results be reviewed by a Medical Review Officer (MRO). MROs are responsible for determining if a drug test result Read more »
Compliance
How Does Return to Duty Drug Testing Work?
All employers can drug test an employee who has been allowed to return to work after completing a drug rehabilitation program. The phrase return-to-duty, however, is associated with the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) drug testing program. A negative return-to-duty drug test means a safety-sensitive employee can get back to work whether or not they’re returning Read more »
5 Things to Consider Before Becoming an Owner-Operator
Most truck drivers dream about becoming an owner-operator at some point in their career. The thought of being your own boss appeals to a lot of people. However, not everyone has what it takes to be an entrepreneur. For instance, if you have an issue with either time management or procrastination, it could be tempting Read more »
Does DOT Drug Test Detect Synthetic Urine?
Until two laboratories become SAMHSA-certified to process oral fluid tests, the urine test is the only drug testing method used by safety-sensitive employers. Employees who fear testing positive for drugs sometimes resort to tampering with or substituting the urine specimen. Manufacturers catering to this group of customers proclaim they have products that work! Subsequently, you Read more »
DOT Releases Random Drug Testing Rates
The start of a new year marks the annual release of the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Random Drug Testing Rates. The random drug testing rates equate to the percentage of employee names to be drawn for random testing throughout the year. For instance, if the random drug testing rate is 50% an employer with 100 Read more »
Login Changes for DOT MIS Submission
The Management Information System (MIS) reports apply to data gathered that pertains to Department of Transportation (DOT) drug testing. MIS requirements vary depending on the mode of transportation that regulates specific safety-sensitive employers. Those transportation modes include: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMCSA) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Federal Transportation Administration (FAA) Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Read more »
SAMHSA Considering Adding Fentanyl to Drug Test
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is requesting the public’s response. They’re asking for public comment as to whether or not they should add the synthetic opioid, fentanyl, to its government-mandated employee drug test. Fentanyl is an extremely dangerous synthetic opioid that is found in all types of illicit drugs today. That’s Read more »
Get Collectors Certified for DOT Oral Fluid Drug Testing
Some employers of the safety-sensitive workforce have been looking forward to the Department of Transportation (DOT) releasing its final ruling authorizing oral fluid drug testing. It happened back in early May. There have been signs pointing to the protocol change. For example, a section for oral fluid testing appeared on the Custody and Control Form Read more »