Understanding Adulterated Drug Test: What Employers and Owner Operators Should Know
An adulterated drug test is one of the major concerns for employers. Inaccurate test results can lead to various negative consequences, including reputational damage, legal and financial consequences, and increased safety risks. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand what an adulterated specimen is, how to prevent it, and what to do if it occurs.
Need to order a Drug Test or Physical at one of our 20,000 plus collection sites located near your place of business or your employee’s home, contact our Support Staff today at 844-573-8378 or support@workplacescreening.com or press on link below to order a service today Order Here
In this blog post, we will delve deeper into the issue of an adulterated drug test. We will discuss the difference between regulated and non-regulated drug tests, non-dot, and DOT physicals, and how to prevent and detect adulterated specimens. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the topic and know what steps to take to ensure accurate drug test results.
Before we dive into the details of adulterated drug tests, let’s first define what it means. An adulterated specimen is a urine sample that has been tampered with in some way, such as or other substances, or masked with adulterants. When the report comes back as an adulterated specimen, the laboratory who performed the testing confirmed it was adulterated with a known adulterant. Workplace Screening Intelligence utilized several labs so our customers have access to the largest and most affordable collection network. Quest Diagnostics performs a Test Sure Screen to make sure the specimen isn’t adulterated. Test Sure screens for many components including oxidants and common cleansing products sold over the internet.
In the transportation industry, there are two types of drug tests: regulated and non-regulated. Regulated drug tests are those required by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for safety-sensitive employees, including commercial motor vehicle drivers, pilots, and train operators. Non regulated drug tests are those that are not mandated by the DOT but may still be required by employers or mandated by state laws.
DOT drug tests are highly regulated and follow strict guidelines to prevent adulteration. For example, the DOT requires the use of a Federal Drug Testing Custody and Control Form (CCF) to document the collection and chain of custody of the urine sample. The collector must also follow specific procedures, such as checking the temperature of the urine to ensure it’s within the acceptable range, checking for unusual color or odor, and observing the donor for signs of tampering.
Non-DOT drug tests, on the other hand, are less regulated and may not follow the same strict guidelines. Therefore, it can be easier for donors to tamper with the sample without being detected. If you conduct non-regulated drug tests, it’s essential to use a reputable laboratory that follows rigorous standards and has procedures in place to prevent adulteration. Please request they treat your non dot specimens as DOT. Or simply request DOT Like.
Another type of employee screening is the DOT physical and non-DOT physical. A DOT physical is a medical examination required by the DOT for commercial motor vehicle drivers. The physical is intended to ensure that the driver is physically and mentally fit to operate a commercial vehicle safely. A non DOT physical is a similar medical examination required by employers or mandated by state laws but is not regulated by the DOT.
DOT physicals do not include a drug test, but they may require a urine specimen to test for medical conditions, such as diabetes. Healthy individuals will repeat their DOT physical every 24 months. Less healthier individuals require the physical is repeated every 90 -365 days according to their health issue.
Preventing and detecting adulterated specimens is crucial for accurate drug test results. To prevent adulteration, employers should educate their employees on the importance of accurate drug test results and the consequences of adulteration. Employers need to use a reputable Third Party Administrator such as Workplace Screening Intelligence so specimen are collected properly and therefore reduce the chance of adulteration. Employers should also use reputable laboratories that follow rigorous standards and have procedures in place to prevent adulteration.
You can also work with a reputable laboratory to detect adulteration. Laboratories can test for adulterants, such as chemicals that mask drug use or additives that dilute the urine sample. Finally, if you have concerns about the validity of drug test results or need guidance on how to prevent adulteration, you can consult with a drug testing expert, your medical review officer or an attorney who specializes in drug testing laws and regulations. If you need assistance with adulteration testing or need to order a screening service today, contact our knowledgeable support staff today at 844-573-8378 or Support@workplacescreening.com
Adulterated drug test is a serious issue that can have negative consequences for employers and owner-operators. Understanding what an adulterated specimen is, the difference between regulated and non-regulated drug tests, and how to prevent and detect adulteration is crucial for accurate drug test results. By taking steps to prevent adulteration, such as educating employees, and using reputable laboratories, you can reduce the risk of tampering and ensure accurate results. If you suspect an adulterated specimen, take immediate action, such as consulting with a drug testing expert like Workplace Screening Intelligence . With the right knowledge and proactive approach, you can ensure that your drug testing program is accurate, reliable, and compliant with applicable laws and regulations. Let our Experience be your Peace of Mind. Need to order a Drug Test or Physical at one of our 20,000 plus collection sites located near your place of business or your employee’s home, contact our Support Staff today at 844-573-8378 or support@workplacescreening.com or press on link below to order a service today Order Here