Easy Employment Screening: A Comprehensive Guide for Employers
Employment screening is a critical component of the hiring process. It ensures that employers hire qualified, competent, and trustworthy individuals. From drug screening to physical exams, understanding the intricacies of employment screening can save time, reduce risk, and maintain compliance with various regulations.
This guide aims to provide employers, HR professionals, and fleet managers with an easy-to-follow overview of employment screening, focusing on both regulated and non-regulated drug testing, physical exams, and the role of the Medical Review Officer (MRO).
What Our Customers Say about Us
John L gave us a 5 star google rating and said, From the beginning, Brenda has been a wealth of knowledge and has been very patient explaining aspects of the DOT random drug testing program. I called multiple times to clarify our responsibility and what WSI could do to help and Brenda has been cheerful and eager to help us get started. Phil the CEO of the company also provided guidance and was knowledgeable and was very pleasant throughout. I’m glad to have found WSI, this is truly a customer first company.
For more 5-star reviews: https://workplacescreening.com/testimonials/
Need to order a drug screen or other employee screening service today? Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/
Easy Employment Screening
Understanding and implementing an effective employment screening process is crucial for any organization. By leveraging modern technology, such as electronic ordering and tracking systems, employers can gain real-time insights into where an employee or applicant is in the screening process. Knowing when they show up at the screening site, when the specimen is at the lab, and the status within the Medical Review Office process can remove all doubts and expedite hiring decisions.
Employee Drug Screening
Drug screening is an essential part of employment screening. It helps ensure workplace safety, compliance with regulations, and overall employee productivity. There are various types of drug tests available, including:
- Non DOT Drug Test: Used in non-regulated industries, these tests can vary in panels and substances tested.
- DOT Drug Test: Mandated by the Department of Transportation for safety-sensitive positions, these tests follow strict guidelines.
- 5 Panel Drug Test: Tests for the five most commonly abused substances.
- 10 Panel Drug Test: Provides a more comprehensive screening by testing for ten different substances including propoxyphene and Quaaludes.
Regulated Drug Test vs. Non Regulated Drug Test
Understanding the difference between regulated drug test and non regulated drug test is vital for compliance and effective screening.
Regulated Drug Test
- Applicable to: Industries regulated by federal agencies, such as the Department of Transportation (DOT).
- Standards: Follow strict guidelines and protocols. It is very important to utilize a regulated drug test form when performing regulated drug test or the regulated drug test may not count for compliance.
- Common Tests: DOT drug test, random testing, post-accident testing, and return-to-duty testing.
- DOT Consortium: Employers can join a DOT consortium to manage random testing programs and ensure compliance.
Non Regulated Drug Test
- Applicable to: Industries not regulated by federal agencies.
- Flexibility: Employers can choose the substances and panels to be tested.
- Common Tests: Pre-employment screening, reasonable suspicion testing, and routine drug testing.
- Non Regulated Drug Test Form: It is very important that you utilize a non regulated drug test form when performing non regulated drug test. You may face fines and penalties from the DOT otherwise.
What’s a NON DOT Drug Screen?
A non-DOT drug screen is used in industries not regulated by the DOT. These tests offer flexibility in terms of substances tested and panels used. Common types include:
- 5 Panel Drug Test: Tests for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP.
- 10 Panel Drug Test: Includes the substances in the 5 panel test plus barbiturates, benzodiazepines, methadone, propoxyphene, and quaaludes.
What are Quaaludes?
Quaaludes, also known as methaqualone, were once widely prescribed as a sedative and hypnotic. They were highly abused for their euphoric effects, leading to their classification as a Schedule I drug in the United States.
DOT Drug Test
A DOT drug test is mandatory for safety-sensitive positions in industries regulated by the Department of Transportation. This includes commercial drivers, pilots, and railroad workers. Key aspects include:
- DOT Drug Test Testing Requirements: Pre-employment, random testing, post-accident testing, reasonable suspicion testing, return-to-duty testing, and follow-up testing.
- DOT Drug Test Substances Tested: Marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP.
- DOT Drug Test Process: Includes specimen collection, laboratory analysis, and review by a Medical Review Officer (MRO).
Drug Screening Near Me
Finding convenient drug screening locations is essential for efficient employment screening. If you are looking for a Drug Screening Near Me or a DOT Drug Test Near Me, you have come to the right place. We have over 20,000 plus electronically enabled collection sites near your workplace or home. That means you can order a drug test today and your employee can complete today.
Drug Screening Near Me Locations
Need a list of drug screening locations near me for a certain area. Press on link below to find the closest drug screening locations near your workplace or employee’s home: https://workplacescreening.com/locations/
Medical Review Officer (MRO)
An Medical Review Officer plays a crucial role in the drug screening process. Responsibilities include:
- Reviewing Results: Analyzing lab results to ensure accuracy and validity.
- Interpreting Findings: Determining if there are legitimate medical explanations for positive results.
- Communication: Contacting employees for additional information and confirming test results with employers.
- Safety Sensitive Letter and Non-Contact Positive: The Medical Review Officer is responsible for the Safety Sensitive Letter and Non-Contact Positive process.
FMCSA Clearinghouse
FMCSA Clearinghouse: Simplified Compliance Guide for Employers
The FMCSA Clearinghouse is an online database established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to track violations of drug and alcohol regulations by commercial drivers. Employers are required to report any such violations, including failed tests, to the Clearinghouse. This system ensures that drivers who violate regulations are identified and removed from safety-sensitive positions until they complete the necessary return-to-duty process.
Steps to Comply with the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse Mandate:
- Register in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.
- Update Your Policy: Add an FMCSA Clearinghouse addendum to your DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing policy.
- Educate: Inform your supervisors and employees about their rights and responsibilities under the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
- Pre-Employment Queries: Conduct queries on each new hire.
- Annual Queries: Perform yearly queries on all drivers.
- Report Positive Alcohol Tests to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
- Document and Report Refusals: Report any collection site refusals to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
- Report Drug and Alcohol Use: Document and report any known drug and alcohol use to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
- Return-to-Duty Tests: Report all return-to-duty tests to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
- Follow-Up Testing: Report the completion of follow-up testing programs to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
- Medical Review Officer (MRO) Reporting: Ensure MROs report all positive drug screens to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
Employers may appoint a Consortium/Third-Party Administrator (CTPA), such as Workplace Screening Intelligence (WSI), to handle some or all duties related to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
Need Help?
For more information about WSI’s FMCSA Clearinghouse Program, contact our support team at:
- Phone: 844-573-8378
- Email: support@workplacescreening.com
- More Information: WSI FMCSA Clearinghouse Services
Physical Exams
Physical exams are an essential part of employment screening, ensuring that employees are physically capable of performing their job duties. There are two main types of physical exams:
DOT Physical
A DOT physical is required for commercial drivers to ensure they meet the physical and mental requirements for safe driving. Key components of DOT Physical include:
- Vision and Hearing Tests: Assessing the ability to see and hear adequately for driving.
- Blood Pressure and Pulse Rate: Ensuring cardiovascular health.
- Urinalysis: Screening for underlying health conditions like diabetes.
- Medical History Review: Evaluating past and present health issues that may affect driving ability.
- DOT Physical Timeframe: The DOT Physical must be repeated every 2 years. Less healthier individuals will need to repeat DOT physical every 90-365 days or until their condition is addressed.
NON DOT Physical
A non-DOT physical is used for positions not regulated by the DOT. These exams can be customized to fit the specific needs of the job and employer. Components may include:
- General Health Assessment: Evaluating overall physical fitness.
- Job-Specific Tests: Assessing capabilities related to job duties, such as lifting or endurance tests.
Not So Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if an employee fails a DOT drug test?
If an employee fails a DOT drug test, they must be immediately removed from safety-sensitive duties. The employee must then complete the return-to-duty process, which includes an evaluation by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), completion of treatment or education programs, and a follow-up test with a negative result.
How do electronic ordering and tracking systems improve employment screening?
Electronic ordering and tracking systems streamline the screening process by providing real-time updates. Employers can track the status of screenings, from the initial order to the final MRO review, ensuring timely and efficient hiring decisions.
What is the role of a DER ?
Designated Employer Representative is responsible for overseeing an organization’s drug and alcohol testing program. This includes ensuring compliance with regulations, managing random testing, and providing training to employees and managers on drug and alcohol policies.
Is there DER training available?
Yes, Workplace Screening offers DER Training on-line and self paced. For more information contact us today at 844-573-8378.
Is there Supervisor training available?
Yes, Workplace Screening offers Supervisor Training on-line and self paced. For more information contact us today at 844-573-8378 or for more information: https://workplacescreening.com/supervisor-drug-and-alcohol-training/
Let Our 30 Years of Experience and Technology Be Your Peace of Mind
Navigating the complexities of employment screening can be daunting. However, with over 30 years of experience and cutting-edge technology, we make it easy for you. Our electronic ordering and tracking systems provide real-time updates, so you know exactly where your employees or applicants are in the screening process. From drug tests to physical exams, our comprehensive solutions ensure compliance, efficiency, and peace of mind.
Whether you need a regulated drug test, a non-regulated drug test, or a physical exam, our extensive network of screening locations has got you covered. Trust our expertise to streamline your employment screening process, allowing you to hire with confidence and maintain a safe, productive workplace.
Ready to simplify your employment screening process? Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your hiring goals.
What Our Customers say about Us
Carlie M. gave us a 5 Star Google Review and said, “Brenda is amazing! Always so helpful and knowledgeable. Switching from our old provider to WSI has made my job SO much easier”!!
Need to order a drug screen or other employee screening service today? Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/