Dot what kind of drug test

The DOT uses urine collection and testing exclusively for drug testing. Alcohol may be tested for using breath and saliva. All three testing methods used by the DOT are non-intrusive. All new hires for safety-sensitive positions must successfully complete a DOT drug screening. Alcohol testing is optional at the discretion of the employer.

Before a new hire can begin performing any safety-sensitive functions, the employer needs to have a negative drug test result on file. The same testing requirements apply for employees starting a new safety-sensitive position or transferring to a different department.

If a supervisor suspects that an employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol they may request a drug test. Tests will not be granted based on a hunch. Such behavior may include slurred speech or the scent or appearance of alcohol. Testing Sites, Forms, Equipment, Supplies Used in Alcohol Testing Subpart K Site - This subpart lists the requirements for a designated DOT alcohol testing site, including security; visual and aural privacy for the test subject; availability of authorized personnel, equipment, materials and facilities needed for the collection and analysis of breath samples.

If the screening test result is 0. The following procedures are to be followed by the STT when conducting the alcohol screening test using the saliva ASD : Check the device expiration date and show it to the employee.

Do not use an expired device. Open the device package in front of the employee. Instruct the employee on how to insert the device into his mouth properly to ensure that he uses it in accordance with manufacturer specifications. STT must wear single-use gloves while doing the test. Follow manufacturer instructions to ensure the device is activated.

If for any reason something goes wrong like if the device breaks or is dropped on the floor, the STT must discard this device. Conduct a new test with a fresh device. For this new test, the STT may offer the employee the choice on whether to use the new device himself unless the employee was actually the one responsible for needing the new test if the employee was the one who dropped the first device.

If for some reason the STT fails to complete this new test, the collection must be stopped and the whole thing must be documented in the ATF. In case the collection portion of the test was successful but the device does not activate, the device must be discarded and a new device must be used in its place. The results will be displayed on the device and must be read within 15 minutes of the test.

Show the results to the employee and record it on the ATF. In , marijuana and amphetamines were the most common substances found in DOT drug test results for commercial motor vehicle drivers. Nonetheless, positive results remained low for commercial drivers, with just 1.

However, the department is still pushing to see a lower number to ensure transportation safety across the country.

Albeit all companies have the option to have their employees tested for drug and alcohol use, some are mandated by law to do so. If you hold any of the jobs listed below, you are considered a safety-sensitive employee. How this impacts your employment status can vary based on company policies. Although, if there is any safety concern while the investigation is ongoing, you may be removed from safety-sensitive duties while a final ruling is being determined. Until marijuana is legal on a federal level, having a medical marijuana card or using CBD products is not considered an acceptable explanation for a positive DOT drug test.

Learn more here: Cannabidiol and Drug Tests Jupe, The impact on your employment will depend on the situation. For example, if you successfully comply with the Medical Review process by presenting a valid prescription from a licensed physician, you are using the proper dosage, and it does not hinder your ability to perform safety-sensitive duties, this could medically explain the non-negative test results and you may be able to return to work as normal after. If you do not have a valid prescription as a medical explanation for a positive test, you will immediately be removed from DOT safety-sensitive job duties.

Next steps for your employment will be determined by the company policy and does not necessarily mean your employment will be terminated.

If that test shows negative, you will be allowed to return to DOT safety sensitive capacity again. After returning to work, you will be required to have no less than 6 unannounced and observed DOT follow-up drug tests over the next 12 months.