What Happens When Owner Operators Fail a Drug Test?
As an owner operator in the transportation industry, one of the most significant concerns is ensuring that you are operating their vehicles safely and responsibly. Alcohol and drug abuse are major issues that can significantly impact the safety of your drivers and other motorists on the road. To combat these issues, drug testing is often a mandatory requirement for commercial drivers.
However, what happens when an owner operator fails a drug test? It’s not something that any employer wants to deal with, but it is a possibility. In this blog post, we will explore the consequences of failing a drug test as an owner operator and what you can do to return to safety sensitive driving practices in the transportation industry.
Substance Abuse Professional
A Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) is a licensed professional who plays a critical role in the DOT drug testing process. If an owner operator fails a drug test, the SAP will conduct an assessment and recommend a course of action for the driver. This can include education, treatment, or other interventions depending on the driver’s individual situation. Once the driver meets the SAP’s recommendation, the SAP will mark them eligible for a Return to Duty Test in the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
Return to Duty Test
Once the driver has completed the recommended program from the SAP, a Return to Duty Test is required before the driver can return to work. This test is administered to ensure that the driver is no longer using drugs and can safely operate a commercial vehicle. The test must be directly observed.
Need to order a Return to Duty Drug screen today? We have over 20,000 sites that allow you to be tested 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/
Follow-up Drug Test
After the Return to Duty Test, the driver will be subject to follow-up drug testing. These tests will be unannounced and can continue for a specified period to ensure that the driver remains drug-free and can safely operate a commercial vehicle. The length and frequency of these tests will be determined by the SAP.
Drug Test Near Me
As an owner operator it’s your responsibility to ensure that any drug testing facilities you use are certified and approved by the DOT or you can partner with a CTPA like Workplace Screening Intelligence who will manage the entire process for you. Finding a qualified drug testing facility near you can be a challenge, but there are resources available to help. The easiest way is to contact Workplace Screening Intelligence to order a test today. We can find sites that are convenient and able to perform a observed collection to meet the DOT requirements.
Medical Review Officer
It is important to always use a MRO. A Medical Review Officer (MRO) is responsible for reviewing and verifying drug test results. If a driver fails a drug test, the MRO will contact the driver to obtain any necessary medical information that may explain the positive result. They will then make a determination as to whether the positive result is legitimate or if there was a legitimate medical explanation.
FMCSA Clearinghouse
The FMCSA Clearinghouse is a secure online database that allows employers to access information about a driver’s drug and alcohol violations. It is a critical tool for employers in the transportation industry to keep their workplaces safe. By accessing the Clearinghouse, employers can ensure that they are hiring qualified drivers who have not had any drug or alcohol-related issues in the past. This database contains records of drug and alcohol violations that occurred after January 6, 2020, and is used to ensure that employers are aware of any drug or alcohol-related issues before hiring a new driver.
When an owner operator fails a drug test and follows through on SAP recommendation, they will be marked in the Clearinghouse eligible for a Return to Duty Test. Once the test is completed and is negative, the CTPA will update the Return to Duty test in the Clearinghouse FMCSA and as long as clear in the FMCSA Clearinghouse, they are eligible to drive. It is very important that you have a CTPA like Workplace Screening Intelligence oversee and schedule your Return to Duty Test and Follow-up testing.
Overall, failing a drug test as an owner operator can have serious consequences. By working with qualified SAPs and certified drug testing facilities, you can get the help you need to return to your driving career As soon as possible. It’s also essential to stay up-to-date on regulatory changes, such as the FMCSA Clearinghouse, to ensure that you are compliant and able to drive. With a commitment to following Workplace Screening Intelligence Return to Duty program, you can be back on the road quickly.
Need help with a Return to Duty Testing Program or want to join our FMCSA Consortium as an owner operator. Contact our Knowledgeable Support Staff at 844-573-8378 or support@wokrplacescreening.com