The Essential DOT Drug Testing Employee and Employer Guide

Introduction

What is DOT drug testing?

DOT drug testing is a drug testing program mandated by the US Department of Transportation. The aim of the DOT drug testing program is to ensure that commercial vehicle drivers are not impaired by drugs or alcohol.

DOT drug testing is required for all commercial motor vehicle drivers who operate vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. Drivers who are required to have a DOT drug test include:

– interstate truck drivers

– bus drivers

– school bus drivers

– metro/subway operators

– taxi and limo drivers

– air traffic controllers

– pipeline workers

– ship captains

DOT drug testing is conducted by specimen collectors who are trained and certified by the DOT. The specimens collected are sent to DOT-certified laboratories for analysis.

Routine test, urine rapid test, urine test strip, urine sample

DOT drug testing is conducted using urine, hair, or saliva samples. Urine is the most common type of sample used.

DOT drug testing includes tests for the following drugs:

– Marijuana

– Cocaine

– Amphetamines

– Opiates

– Phencyclidine (PCP)

DOT drug testing is conducted on a pre-employment basis, as well as randomly, periodically, and post-accident. Employers are required to test all new employees prior to their first day on the job. Random testing is conducted on a random basis, with no advance notice given to the driver. Periodic testing is conducted at least once per year for drivers who are subject to DOT drug testing. Post-accident testing is conducted when a driver is involved in an accident, and it is determined that drugs or alcohol may have played a role in the accident.

What are the Requirements for a DOT Drug Test?

DOT drug testing requirements are governed by Part 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Part 40 establishes the rules and procedures that must be followed in order to conduct a DOT drug test.

Part 40 requires employers to provide employees with information about the DOT drug testing program. This information must be provided to employees prior to their being tested.

Part 40 also requires employers to have a written policy on DOT drug testing. This policy must be made available to employees. The policy must include information on the following:

– What types of drugs will be tested for

– How often employees will be tested

– What the consequences are for refusing to take a DOT drug test

– What the consequences are for testing positive for drugs

DOT drug testing is conducted using urine, hair, or saliva samples. Urine is the most common type of sample used. Part 40 requires that urine specimens be collected in a privacy stall. The specimen collector must observe the employee as they provide the specimen. Part 40 also requires that the specimen be collected within 32 hours of the time that the employee was notified of the test.

Hair and saliva specimens may also be used for DOT drug testing. Hair specimens must be collected by a licensed healthcare professional. Saliva specimens must be collected using DOT-approved oral fluid collection devices.

What are the Best Practices for Employers?

Employers who are subject to DOT drug testing requirements should develop and implement a DOT drug testing policy that complies with Part 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations. The policy should include information on the following:

– What types of drugs will be tested for

– How often employees will be tested

– What the consequences are for refusing to take a DOT drug test

– What the consequences are for testing positive for drugs

Employers should also provide employees with information about the DOT drug testing program prior to their being tested. This information should include the following:

– What types of drugs will be tested for

– How often employees will be tested

– What the consequences are for refusing to take a DOT drug test

– What the consequences are for testing positive for drugs

What are the Best Practices for Employees?

Employees should also be familiar with their employer’s DOT drug testing policy. This policy should include information on the following:

– What types of drugs will be tested for

– How often employees will be tested

– What the consequences are for refusing to take a DOT drug test

– What the consequences are for testing positive for drugs

Employees who are subject to DOT drug testing should also know what to expect during the testing process. Urine, hair, and saliva specimens may be used for DOT drug testing. Urine is the most common type of sample used. Part 40 requires that urine specimens be collected in a privacy stall. The specimen collector must observe the employee as they provide the specimen. Part 40 also requires that the specimen be collected within 32 hours of the time that the employee was notified of the test.

Drug testing in Georgia

To qualify for workers’ compensation insurance premium discounts, Georgia allows businesses to join a Drug-Free Workplace Program as a voluntary participant.

If you are an employer wishing to leverage this benefit, you must voluntarily comply with very specific rules. You can read them in full here.

If you break any of these regulations, you may be fined and/or removed from the program.

The Georgia Drug-Free Workplace Program requires employers to:

– Implement a written policy on drug use that meets or exceeds state requirements

– Provide employees with information about the dangers of drug use and the consequences of violating the policy

– Give employees an opportunity to get help for drug problems before taking disciplinary action

– Take action against employees who violate the policy, up to and including termination.

Conclusion

The Importance of Adhering to the DOT Regulations Regarding Drug Testing

DOT drug testing is an important part of the Department of Transportation’s efforts to ensure safety on the nation’s roads and highways. Employers and employees who are subject to DOT drug testing should familiarize themselves with Part 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations. This document establishes the rules and procedures that must be followed in order to conduct a DOT drug test. Employers and employees should also be familiar with

their employer’s DOT drug testing policy. This policy should include information on the types of drugs that will be tested for, how often employees will be tested, and what the consequences are for refusing to take a test or testing positive for drugs. Following these guidelines will help ensure that DOT drug testing is conducted properly and in accordance with the law.