When Does an Employer Require a Non DOT Physical and Drug Screen?
As an employer, one of your top priorities is to ensure the safety of your workforce and the wider community. For transportation companies and their owners, this responsibility is even more critical. Ensuring their employees are physically and mentally fit for the job is crucial to keep their business running, all while minimizing risk. One way to do this is through Non DOT physicals and drug screens. In this article, we will discuss when an employer may require a non-DOT physical and drug screen, the differences between them and what you need to know to keep your staff safe.
What is a Non DOT physical?
A Non DOT physical is a physical examination that an employer may require their employees to undergo to ensure they are physically and mentally fit to perform specific job duties. Non DOT physicals are not required by federal regulations or laws, as the name suggests. Unlike DOT physicals, Non DOT physicals may not involve a physician, only a physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or a certified medical examiner (CME).
What is a Non DOT Drug Screen?
A Non DOT drug screen test is a drug test that screens for as many or more substances than a DOT drug test and is not required for any drug and alcohol program by federal regulations or laws. Employers may require a Non DOT drug screen as part of their internal policy.
A Non DOT drug screen is a great tool for employers to ensure that their employees are not participating in any substance abuse that may affect their job performance or safety. With a Non DOT drug screen, employers can test for drugs like marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and phencyclidine.
When does an employer require a Non DOT physical and drug screen?
Employers may require employees to undergo Non DOT physicals and drug screens if:
– They want to ensure that their employees can meet the physical requirements of the job such as driving a commercial vehicle.
– The employee’s job involves tasks that could pose a risk to themselves or others.
– The job involves physically demanding work.
– The employer’s insurance policy requires it.
– Part of their pre-employment screening process.
Who requires Non DOT physicals and drug screens?
Employees who work in transportation and logistics industries such as trucking, busing, and delivery require DOT physicals and drug screens for compliance. Meanwhile, Non DOT physicals and drug screens are not legally required, but it may vary based on your company’s policy. It’s best to speak to an employment lawyer or HR professional to get the right advice.
Employee safety should always come first because of any security issues. Non DOT physicals and drug screens can go a very long way in ensuring that employees are physically and mentally fit for the job in question, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries, and preventing drug and alcohol abuse. It is important to work with trained medical personnel who are qualified to perform the necessary tests and keep accurate records. Should you choose to administer a Non DOT physical or drug screen, Workplace Screening intelligence is here to help you. We have physicals and drug screen sites near your workplace or your employee’s home. Call us today and we can order your drug screen or physical electronically and allow your employee to test today.