Comprehensive Guide to Employment Screening

Employment screening is a pivotal process for any organization aiming to build a safe, productive, and compliant workforce. With safety being a top priority, especially in safety-sensitive industries, ensuring your employees are fit for duty is essential. From drug testing to physical examinations, a comprehensive employment screening strategy can help you make informed hiring decisions and maintain a drug-free workplace.

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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.

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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/

Employment Drug Test

One of the most common components of employment screening is the drug test. It serves as an effective measure to identify substance abuse issues before they impact workplace safety and productivity. Whether you’re conducting a pre-employment test or implementing a random testing program, understanding the different types of drug tests available is crucial.

Regulated Drug Test vs. Non Regulated Drug Test

Drug tests can be categorized into regulated drug test and non-regulated drug test. Regulated drug tests comply with specific federal guidelines, such as those set by the Department of Transportation (DOT). These tests are mandatory for employees in safety-sensitive positions, like truck drivers and pilots. Non regulated drug test, on the other hand, are not bound by federal guidelines and are typically used by private employers. It is important that you utilize a regulated drug test form for regulated drug test or your drug test may not be used to meet compliance.  Non Regulated drug test should be performed on a non regulated drug test form or you may face penalties from the DOT.

DOT Drug Test

What is a DOT Drug Test?

A DOT drug test is a federally mandated test for employees in safety-sensitive roles. The DOT Drug test ensures that workers in critical transportation sectors are not impaired by drugs or alcohol. The DOT drug test typically includes a urine specimen analysis for five specific drug categories:

• Marijuana (THC)
• Cocaine
• Amphetamines
• Opiates
• Phencyclidine (PCP)

The DOT Drug  test are conducted as part of pre-employment, random testing, post-accident investigation, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, and follow-up testing protocols.

What is a NON DOT Drug Test?

A non-DOT drug test is not governed by federal regulations and can be customized to meet the needs of a specific employer. NON DOT Drug test are commonly used in private sectors and can screen for a broader range of substances. NON-DOT Drug Test offer flexibility in testing methods, such as urine drug test, hair follicle drug test, saliva drug test, oral fluid drug test and blood samples.

5 panel Drug Test

A 5-panel drug test is a standard non-DOT test that screens for five common drugs:

• Marijuana (THC)
• Cocaine
• Amphetamines
• Opiates
• Phencyclidine (PCP)

This test is widely used for pre-employment screening and random testing programs.

10 Panel Drug Test

For a more comprehensive analysis, a 10-panel drug test can be utilized. This test screens for the same five drugs as the 5 panel test, plus an additional five substances:

• Barbiturates
• Benzodiazepines
• Methadone
• Propoxyphene
• Quaaludes (Methaqualone)

By including these additional substances, the 10 panel drug test provides a more thorough assessment of an individual’s potential drug use.

Medical Review Officer (MRO)

A Medical Review Officer (MRO) plays a critical role in the drug testing process. A Medical Review Officer is a licensed physician responsible for receiving and reviewing laboratory results generated by an employer’s drug testing program. The Medical Review Officer ensure the accuracy and integrity of the drug test results and determine if there are any legitimate medical explanations for a positive test result. The Medical Review Officer is responsible for the Safety Sensitive Letter and Non-Contact Positive process.

Simplify FMCSA Clearinghouse Compliance with a CTPA

The FMCSA Clearinghouse is an online database created by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to monitor violations of drug and alcohol regulations among commercial drivers. It’s essential for employers to report any such violations, including failed tests, to ensure that drivers violating these regulations are identified and removed from safety-sensitive positions until they complete the necessary return-to-duty process.

To comply with the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse mandate, employers must:

1. Register in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.
2. Update your DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing policy with a FMCSA Clearinghouse addendum.
3. Educate supervisors and employees on their rights and responsibilities regarding the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
4. Conduct pre-employment queries for each new hire in the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
5. Perform annual queries on all drivers in the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
6. Report all positive alcohol tests to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
7. Document and report all collection site refusals to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
8. Document and report all known drug and alcohol use to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
9. Report all return-to-duty tests to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
10. Report completion of follow-up testing programs to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
11. Ensure Medical Review Officers (MROs) report all positive drug screens to the FMCSA Clearinghouse.

Why Use a CTPA for FMCSA Clearinghouse Compliance?

Managing all these requirements can be overwhelming. That’s where a Consortium/Third-Party Administrator (CTPA) like Workplace Screening Intelligence (WSI) comes in. Here are some key benefits of using a CTPA:

Expert Management

A CTPA like WSI ensures that all compliance tasks are handled by experienced professionals, reducing the risk of errors and oversights.

Time Savings

By delegating these responsibilities to a CTPA, you free up crucial time and resources that can be better spent on your core business activities.

Peace of Mind

With WSI managing your compliance, you can rest assured that all regulatory requirements are being met accurately and promptly.

Comprehensive Reporting

WSI provides detailed reporting and documentation, ensuring that all required information is submitted to the FMCSA Clearinghouse without delays.

Support and Training

WSI offers educational resources and training for your team, ensuring everyone understands their roles and responsibilities regarding the Clearinghouse.

For more information about WSI’s FMCSA Clearinghouse Program, contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or support@workplacescreening.com. Click here for more details about WSI FMCSA Clearinghouse Services.

Physical Examinations

Physical examinations are another critical component of employment screening. They help ensure that employees are physically capable of performing their job duties without risking their health or safety. Physicals are typically broken into two classes:  The DOT Physical and the NON DOT Physical.

DOT Physical

A DOT physical is a mandatory examination for commercial drivers to ensure they are medically qualified to operate commercial motor vehicles. The DOT physical assesses various health indicators, including vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall physical fitness.  The DOT Physical needs to be repeated every 2 years.  If you have a health condition, you may ned to repeat your DOT Physical every 90-365 days.

NON DOT Physical

A non DOT physical is not governed by federal regulations and can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of an employer. The non-dot physical are typically used for non-safety-sensitive positions and can include assessments of an individual’s overall health and ability to perform job-related tasks.

Not So Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Quaaludes?

Quaaludes, also known as Methaqualone, are a sedative-hypnotic drug that was commonly prescribed in the 1960s and 1970s for insomnia and anxiety. Due to its high potential for abuse and addiction, Quaaludes were discontinued in the United States and many other countries in the 1980s. However, they may still appear in comprehensive drug tests, such as the 10-panel drug test.

What should I do if an employee fails a DOT drug test?

If an employee fails a DOT drug test, they must be immediately removed from safety-sensitive functions. The employee must then undergo a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) evaluation and complete the recommended treatment program. Once the program is completed, the employee must pass a return-to-duty test before resuming safety-sensitive duties. Follow-up testing may also be required to ensure ongoing compliance.

Need to assistance with a return to drug screen program and follow-up testing program?  We have an easy program that makes it easy for the employer and allows the employee to be tested randomly and meet compliance of Follow-Up Testing Program.  Contact our knowledgeable support staff at 844-573-8378 or press on link to order now: https://workplacescreening.com/order-here/

Electronic Ordering and Tracking

Implementing electronic ordering and tracking systems can significantly improve employment screening processes. These systems provide real-time updates on the status of drug tests and physical examinations, allowing employers to track when an employee or applicant shows up at the screening site, when the specimen reaches the lab, and where it is in the MRO process. This transparency eliminates uncertainty and ensures that hiring decisions can be made promptly.

Random Testing

Random drug testing is an effective strategy for identifying drug abusers and deterring employees from using drugs. By selecting employees for testing at random intervals, employers can create a work environment that discourages substance abuse and promotes safety and productivity.

Benefits of Random Testing

• Deterrence: Knowing that they could be tested at any time discourages employees from using drugs.
• Identifying drug use: Random testing can uncover substance abuse issues that may not be detected through pre-employment or scheduled tests.
• Enhancing safety: Maintaining a drug-free workplace reduces the risk of accidents and injuries, particularly in safety-sensitive industries.

DOT Consortium

A DOT consortium is a group of employers who join together to conduct DOT drug and alcohol testing programs. By pooling resources, employers in a consortium can efficiently manage their testing programs and ensure compliance with DOT regulations. Consortium services typically include random drug testing, management of drug testing records, and coordination of follow-up testing. Workplace Screening offers the following consortium programs:

FAA Random Testing Consortium, FMCSA Random Testing Consortium, FRA Random Testing Consortium, FTA Random Testing Consortium, PHMSA Random Testing Consortium, US Coast Guard Random Testing Consortium, FMCSA Owner Operator Random Testing Consortium, CAPUC Random Testing Consortium, Ohio BWC 5% Random Testing Consortium, Ohio BWC 15% Random Testing Consortium, and NON DOT Random Testing Consortium.

Conclusion

Let Our 30 Years of Experience and Technology Be Your Peace of Mind

At Workplace Screening Intelligence, we understand the importance of a robust employment screening program. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we have the expertise and technology to streamline your screening processes and provide you with peace of mind.

By leveraging our electronic ordering and tracking systems, you can stay informed about the status of your employees’ drug tests and physical examinations, ensuring timely and informed hiring decisions. Our comprehensive range of services, including DOT and non-DOT drug tests, physical examinations, random testing, and consortium management, is designed to meet the needs of employers, HR professionals, and safety managers.

Join the thousands of businesses that trust us to help them build safe, productive, and compliant workforces. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your employment screening needs.

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/

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