Hiring new employees can be a daunting task, and it can be especially challenging when you need to fill a vacancy as soon as possible. Of course, you want to make sure your new hires are not only competent but also reliable and trustworthy. As a result, conducting a drug test may be necessary before you make your final hiring decision. However, with so many different types of drug tests available, it can be confusing to decide which one to order and how to interpret the results. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about drug testing in the workplace to help you make the best decision for your organization.
First, let’s do a quick overview of the different types of drug tests so that you can order the correct drug screen for your applicant.. The two most common categories of drug tests are non-DOT and DOT (Department of Transportation) drug tests. Non-DOT drug tests are used for non-regulated employees, while DOT drug tests are required for employees who perform safety-sensitive functions in transportation industries such as trucking, busing, aviation, and railroad. Non DOT drug tests can include a 5-panel drug test, which screens for the five most commonly abused drugs: marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP. On the other hand, a standard DOT drug test is a 5-panel urine test, but a 10-panel drug test is required for pre-employment DOT testing under the FMCSA Clearinghouse. For non dot employees, you can choose to have a POCT test, which will give you the results today.
Non-DOT drug tests are usually ordered by employers who want to ensure a safe and drug-free workplace without the regulatory obligations of DOT testing. Non-DOT drug tests can include urine, hair, and oral fluid drug testing, depending on the employer’s preference. It’s important to note that non-DOT drug testing does not have the same federally mandated requirements as DOT drug testing, so the consequences of a positive drug test may vary depending on the employer’s policy. That being said, a positive drug test can still result in disciplinary action or termination regardless of the employer’s regulatory obligations.
When ordering a drug test today, it’s essential to consider the importance of choosing a reliable drug testing provider. When looking for a drug testing company, consider their experience and reputation in the industry, the quality of their processes and technology, and their customer service. Additionally, make sure that the company is accredited by major organizations such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP).
For DOT drug tests, employers must comply with the FMCSA Clearinghouse requirements for pre-employment testing, and in general, follow the 49 CFR Part 40 regulations. The FMCSA Clearinghouse is an electronic database that contains records of all positive drug and alcohol test results, refusals to test, and other drug and alcohol program violations for commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders. Employers must register with the Clearinghouse and conduct queries before hiring drivers to ensure they are not prohibited from performing safety-sensitive functions due to previous positive drug tests or refusals.
Drug testing is an essential part of a comprehensive background check when hiring new employees. Whether non-DOT or DOT testing is needed, it is important to order a drug test from a reliable provider, pay attention to the requirements for compliance, and be prepared to act based on the results. The consequences of negative results can be avoided in part by following the best practices within the regulatory framework and the reputable testing agency of your choice. In the end, hiring a new employee requires careful attention to all aspects of the hiring process, and drug testing is vital to ensuring the suitability of new hires for their roles in the organization. Workplace Screening Intelligence is a Third Party Administrator that can electronically order a drug screen, physical or titer testing. Call our knowledgeable support team today to find a testing site near their work or home.