Employment Testing 101: An Introduction to Drug Testing
As an employer, it’s important to ensure that your employees are fit to work and perform their duties to the best of their abilities. One way to do so is through employment testing, which typically includes drug testing and/or physicals. Whether you’re a new employer or looking to update your current employment screening policies, this guide provides an introduction to the basics of employment testing. In particular, we’ll be discussing non-DOT drug tests, the difference between 5-panel and 10-panel drug tests, and DOT drug tests as well as physicals.
Non-DOT Drug Test
A non DOT drug test is a drug test that is not regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and is typically used by employers in non-regulated industries. Non-DOT drug tests are often conducted for pre-employment screening, random testing, reasonable suspicion, or post-accident testing. Non-DOT drug tests can test for a variety of substances including marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and phencyclidine (PCP).
What is a 5-Panel Drug Test?
A 5-panel drug test is a non-DOT drug test that tests for five of the most commonly abused drugs – marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP. The 5 Panel drug test is commonly used by employers who are testing employees for the first time or instituting random drug testing policies. The test is relatively inexpensive and returns results quickly. While a 5-Panel test is a good place to start for employers, it may not be sufficient for all industries.
What is a 10-Panel Drug Test?
A 10-Panel drug test is a non-DOT drug test that tests for ten different drugs – cocaine, marijuana, opiates, phencyclidine (PCP), amphetamines, methamphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, methadone, methaqualone and propoxyphene. The 10-Panel drug test is commonly used by employers in industries where safety is a top priority, such as non-dot transportation or healthcare. The test is more comprehensive than a 5-Panel test, but it also costs more due to the additional drugs screened.
DOT Drug Test
A DOT drug test is a drug test that is regulated by the Department of Transportation and is required for employers in regulated industries, such as transportation or aviation. DOT drug testing is regulated under strict guidelines to ensure consistency and accuracy. DOT drug tests are typically five-panel tests that test for marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP, but some employers may choose to test for additional substances. If positive or a refusal, the dot drug screen, alcohol or refusal must be reported to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
DOT Physicals
A DOT Physical is regulated by the Department of Transportation and is required for employers in regulated industries, such as transportation or aviation or rail. It consist of many portions of an exam that medical practitioner decides if the individual is fit for duty. According to the individuals health, they will have to repeat the physical every 90 days – 2 years.
Non-DOT Physicals
A Non DOT Physical is similar to a DOT physical, however, it can be tailored to the employers needs. Perhaps you need a respirator fit test, respirator questionnaire or a lift test to determine if employee is fit for duty. Employment testing is an important aspect of ensuring a safe and productive workplace, and drug testing is a key component of employment testing. Non-DOT drug tests come in various forms, including 5-Panel and 10-Panel tests, and are commonly used by employers in non-regulated industries. DOT drug tests, on the other hand, are heavily regulated and required by employers in regulated industries. Physicals can be Dot or Non Dot Physicals.
As an employer, it’s important to carefully consider the specific needs of your industry when implementing an employment testing policy. Workplace Screening Intelligence has over 20,000 collection sites near your employee’s home or workplace and over 5,000 sites for physicals. If you need assistance with your employment screening program or need to order a drug test or physical today, contact our Support Team at 844-573-8378 or Support@workplacescreening.com