Understanding Drug Testing in the Workplace: What Employers Need to Know
Drug testing is a controversial topic for many employees and employers. However, a drug-free workplace is mandated by law for DOT, Federal Employees and some state and federal contracts mandate it as well. Businesses must ensure they understand all drug testing laws and procedures to avoid any legal issues and maintain a safe and productive environment. In this blog post, we will explore different types of drug testing, who needs to comply with these tests, the drug testing process, and more.
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Types of Drug Testing
There are different types of drug testing available for workplaces. They include non dot drug tests, dot drug tests, non dot drug screens, non-regulated drug screens, and more. It is essential to understand the differences between these tests.
Non Dot Drug Test – A drug test conducted outside of the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulation is considered a non-DOT drug test. Employers can conduct these types of tests on their employees. Non-DOT drug tests can either use urine drug testing, hair follicle drug testing, or oral fluid drug testing samples. It typically includes a 5-panel test, which screens for 5 different drugs – cocaine, amphetamine, marijuana, opioids, and PCP.
DOT Drug Test – DOT drug testing is mandatory for employees under the regulations of the Department of Transportation. Typically, it includes a urine sample test and screens for five different drugs, including cannabis (THC), cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and phencyclidine (PCP). These tests utilize strict protocols, and only certified labs and vendors can perform the research. Oral fluids was passed for DOT testing, however, labs must be certified, collection devices approved and collectors must be trained as well. It will likely be available later in 2024.
Non Regulated Drug Screen – Non-Regulated drug screening is usually an option for employers that are not bound by DOT regulations. This test is the same an NON DOT Drug Screening. These tests can include hair, saliva, or urine tests.
Clearinghouse FMCSA – The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) has mandated a Clearinghouse drug testing portal. It acts as a repository for drug testing violations of Commercial Motor Vehicle drivers (CMV). Drivers that violate the FMCSA drug testing regulations will be recorded in the clearinghouse portal. Therefore, employers must comply with the FMCSA clearinghouse regulations. Every FMCSA mandated company must perform a pre-emplyment querie on all hires and perform an annual query on each driver.
Who Reports to the FMCSA Clearinghouse?
Employers with CDL drivers and owner-operators must comply with the FMCSA’s clearinghouse regulations. Only the results of drug and alcohol tests are required to be reported. Other vital aspects of the clearinghouse include the drug collection; Medical Review Officer (MRO) process; Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) services. The MRO reports positive drug tests and medical refusals. The employer reports positive alcohol test, known use and collection site refusals. The employer may allow a CTPA such as Workplace Screening Intelligence to report and query on their behalf. SAPs report that a driver is eligible for return to duty testing and the employer or their appointed CTPA will report Return to duty test and when the employee completes Return to duty test and all of their follow-up testing program.
Supervisor Drug and Alcohol Awareness Training
Drug and Alcohol Awareness Training is an important part of your drug and alcohol testing program. Supervisor training allows the supervisor to easily spot drug and alcohol abuse for reasonable suspicion testing. This will remove the employee from the workplace and stop them from causing workplace accidents or eliminate other costs such as absenteeism, loss of productivity and other costs. Your Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy will explain how the company deals with those who test positive for drug and alcohol abuse. Some employees will terminate employee immediately with a possible chance for reinstatement after a certain time period has passed and they have completed a Substance Abuse Program. Others will terminate immediately. Either way, you should provide a list of places where they can seek help fore their condition.
Drug and Alcohol Policy.
A Drug and Alcohol Testing policy is a very important part of the drug and alcohol testing program. The policy will inform everyone of their rights and responsibilities with the company’s drug testing program. If you need a customizable drug and alcohol testing program, contact Workplace Screening today at 844-573-8378 or [email protected]
Test Near Me
It is vital to find a reputable drug testing company near your business location. Conducting tests for employees needs to follow a strict process. Moreover, the collection of samples must comply with the standard drug testing protocols. Employers should find a drug testing company that delivers fast and accurate results. Workplace Screening Intelligence has over 20,000 collection sites that are located near your workplace or your employee’s home. Workplace Screening Intelligence can order a test for your employee today and they can complete testing at the collection site.
Drug testing may seem daunting, but it is critical for employers to implement preventative measures to protect their businesses. Employees will benefit from a drug-free workplace, which ultimately ensures a safer working environment and better results. Employers can rely on reliable drug testing with Workplace Screening Intelligence to deliver fast and accurate results while adhering to strict regulations. Employers who put drug testing protocols in place will ultimately reduce liability and better comply with local, state, and federal laws. If you need assistance with your drug testing program, physicals, FMCSA Clearinghouse, wellness testing, titer testing, contact Workplace Screening Intelligence today at 844-573-8378 or [email protected] or press on link below to order a service now: Order Here