Everything You Need To Know About DOT Screening Mandates
As an employer in the transportation industry or owner operator, it’s essential to comply with the Department of Transportation (DOT) laws and regulations. To keep our roads and highways safe, the DOT mandates periodic drug and alcohol tests for all commercial drivers. Failing to follow these regulations not only puts your business at risk but also jeopardizes public safety.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of DOT Screening Mandates and answer some common questions. We’ll cover what a 5 panel test is, oral fluid drug testing, Medical Review Officers (MROs), and the FMCSA Clearinghouse. We’ll also discuss the importance of DOT Supervisor Drug and Alcohol Awareness Training, DOT Physicals, non-DOT drug screens, and how you can order drug tests today.
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What Is A 5 Panel Test?
To comply with the DOT Screening Mandates, employees who operate commercial motor vehicles or perform safety-sensitive functions are required to undergo drug and alcohol testing. The most common type of drug test is a DOT 5 panel test, which screens for five classes of illegal drugs – THC, Cocaine, Opiates, PCP, and amphetamines. The test can be conducted urine or recently approved DOT Oral Fluid Testing.
Oral Fluid Drug Testing
Oral fluid drug testing is another reliable option for DOT Drug Screening Test Mandates. The test detects recent drug use of up to 48-72 hours and can identify a broader range of drugs. It’s a non-invasive, observed collection method, making it more efficient and economical than other screening methods. Oral fluid test results are also more challenging to tamper with, providing accurate and reliable outcomes. Oral fluids will likely be rolled out in 2024 or early 2025 a few items are pending in order to allow the Oral Fluid Testing mandate to be met:
- FDA Approved Oral Fluid Device
- 2 Labs must be certified for Oral Fluid Testing (with the same device)
- Collectors must be trained and certified to collect oral fluids
What Is A Medical Review Officer (MRO)?
A Medical Review Officer (MRO) is a licensed physician responsible for receiving and interpreting laboratory drug test results. The MRO examines and verifies laboratory results, evaluates possible medical explanations, interviews test subjects, and provides the employer with detailed reports. One key role of an MRO is to determine whether a valid medical explanation exists for a positive test result and advise the employer. In addition, MRO also determines Safety Sensitive issues such as a driver who has a prescription for Oxycodone who is legally negative, however, MRO can issue safety sensitive letter which requires employee to go to prescribing physician or occupational medicine physician to get clearance to drive a 26,001 or higher pound vehicle and take oxycodone prescription.
What Is The FMCSA Clearinghouse?
The FMCSA Clearinghouse is a database that records commercial drivers’ drug and alcohol testing violations from January 6, 2020. The Clearinghouse allows employers and other authorized parties to see the drug and alcohol testing records of commercial drivers. All drivers in the DOT’s drug and alcohol testing program are required to report any positive drug test results, refusal to test, or other testing violations to the Clearinghouse. In addition, every employer must query each pre-employment driver and an annual query on each driver on their roster.
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DOT Supervisor Drug And Alcohol Awareness Training
The DOT requires Supervisors overseeing commercial motor vehicle drivers to undergo specialized education on their role in implementing and enforcing their company’s drug and alcohol testing policies. DOT Supervisor Drug and Alcohol Awareness Training aims at helping supervisors understand their responsibility for implementing various drug and alcohol testing requirements. This training makes supervisors aware of necessary actions and obligations to perform as per the DOT regulations and mandates. Drug and alcohol awareness training allows supervisors the knowledge and information needed to remove drug and alcohol offenders from the workplace and/or identify those that need help with drug and alcohol abuse.
DOT Physical and NONDOT Physical
The DOT physical involves a comprehensive physical exam to ensure that commercial drivers are fit to operate commercial motor vehicles safely. The exam includes reviewing the driver’s medical history, vital signs, and physical examination. The doctor must be a Certified Medical Examiner (CME) listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners to perform the DOT physical. DOT physicals must be repeated every two years for healthy individuals. Less healthier individuals will need to repeat physicals every 90-365 days according to their ailment. NONDOT Physicals can be the same as DOT or employers can customize to needs in their workplace (Extra Vision test, lift test, respiratory, etc…).
Non-DOT Drug Screens
Non-DOT drug screens are requested by companies outside the transportation industry to comply with their private policies or state laws. These tests are similar to DOT tests in format and procedure, but they are not subject to DOT regulations. While the same 5 panel test can be used, each company is free to establish its drug-free workplace policy and customizes the types of drugs they wish to test for in their program. Some healthcare employers might utilize larger panels as high as 20 drugs for healthcare drug testing while other employers may utilize hair follicle testing which can go back 90 days.
Order A Drug Test Today
Every company has a different approach to drug and alcohol testing. However, understanding DOT Screening Mandates and the available testing options can help business owners and employers make informed decisions about their drug and alcohol program. Whether you need DOT or non-DOT drug screening, outsourcing your testing needs to an expert in the industry is the best course of action. These professionals can provide you with reliable test results and guide you through the regulations and compliance requirements that comes with DOT mandates. Looking for a drug screen near me? Need to order a DOT service today? Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or support@wokrplacescreening.com or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/
Adhering to DOT Screening Mandates is not only a requirement but also an act of responsibility to ensure the safety of everyone who shares the road. By implementing and enforcing DOT regulations, companies are maintaining a safer work environment for their employees and customers. Additionally, complying with DOT Screening Mandates can result in reduced legal expenses, decreased accident rates, and increased employee retention. As an employer or business owner in the transportation industry, always strive for compliance with DOT regulations and mandates! dot drug screen, what is a 5 panel test, oral fluid drug testing, medical review officer, MRO, FMCSA Clearinghouse, Clearinghouse FMCSA, Clearinghouse DOT, Everyone in DOT report to Clearinghouse, DOT Supervisor Drug and Alcohol Awareness Training, DOT Physical, NONDOT Drug Screen, non-reg order a drug test today, owner operator, safety sensitive letter, hair testing