Drive Safe, Drive Smart: What Is a DOT Drug Test?
The US Department of Transportation employs roughly 55,000 people. One of their many jobs is to ensure that public transportation is safe for everyone to use.
The DOT specifically oversees FAA Flight crews, commercial motor carriers, aviation crews, and FTA vehicle operators. One of the ways they guarantee safety is by administering the DOT test.
What should employees know about the DOT test and where can employers access the DOT test?
Read on to find out.
What the DOT Test Looks For
There are two types of DOT tests. One is a drug test that requires a urine sample. The second is a breath or saliva test that detects alcohol.
The urine test will reveal the use of marijuana/THC, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP. It also registers certain prescription medications.
Note that you are not prohibited from taking any prescription medications if you provide DOT transportation. However, you must prove that a licensed doctor prescribed this medication.
In addition, your doctor must testify that the medication in question will not impair your ability to provide safe transportation. You must also ensure that you are taking the proper dosage as prescribed by your doctor. Finally, you must ensure that the medication is not on the list of prohibited medications as specified by your agency.
When Can the DOT Test Be Administered?
There are a number of situations that could lead to the administration of a DOT test.
It is not uncommon for new employees to take a pre-employment DOT test. This is part of the screening process and will determine whether or not you are eligible for the position in question.
Oftentimes, employees must take DOT tests if their employers have reasonable suspicion that the employee is abusing drugs or alcohol. This often occurs after or on the scene of an on-the-job accident.
If an employer requires their employee to take a leave of absence for drug or alcohol use, they will need to take a DOT test before returning to work. They may also take a follow-up test in the months proceeding this return-to-work test.
Finally, it is important to note that your employers possess the right to require random drug or alcohol screenings. While they must disclose this right to their employers, they do not have to provide a warning in advance that a DOT test is coming.
The results of your test are confidential. However, your employer may release this information with or without your consent for the sake of legal and administrative proceedings.
Where To Find Certified DOT Testing
If you work for an agency that requires employees to take the DOT test, you cannot use random drug or alcohol screening tests. It is required that you use certified DOT testing. This includes both the methods and equipment used to administer the test and the facilitators who are providing these materials.
At ReliaLab, we are certified to provide DOT testing and can meet you where your employees work. Contact us today to find out more about our services.
