Lab Services

- On January 1, 2018, the Department of Transportation (DOT) implemented a new rule that modified the DOT 5-panel urine test. Employers and individuals should note that the current DOT drug test remains a urine test, conducted by qualified collectors, analyzed in a SAMHSA-certified laboratory, and reviewed by a licensed Medical Review Officer. The DOT 5-panel urine drug test screens for the following substances: Marijuana (THC) Cocaine Amphetamines Opioids** Phencyclidine (PCP) **Note: The term "Opioids" was previously "Opiates," and all DOT drug tests will continue to include confirmation testing for Codeine, Morphine, and 6-AM (heroin) when necessary. In the January rule change, the DOT also added initial screening and confirmation testing for the semi-synthetic opioids Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Oxycodone, and Oxymorphone to this Opioids group.

- All safety-sensitive employees, regardless of the DOT agency, are required to undergo drug and/or alcohol testing in the following situations: Pre-employment Random Reasonable suspicion Return to Duty Post-Accident Follow-Up

- As a new hire or an existing employee transferring from a non-safety-sensitive role to a safety-sensitive role (even within the same company), you must undergo a DOT pre-employment drug test. While some employers may also conduct pre-employment alcohol testing, it is not mandatory. You can only begin performing safety-sensitive functions after your employer receives a negative result from the pre-employment DOT drug test (and a negative alcohol test result, if applicable).

- All safety-sensitive employees are subject to unannounced random drug and alcohol testing. Alcohol testing is conducted just before, during, or immediately after performing safety-sensitive duties. Depending on the specific industry regulations, you may only be required to undergo random drug testing. For more information, contact us in Fairmont, NC, at 910-431-7518.

- Safety-sensitive employees must undergo drug or alcohol testing if a supervisor requests it based on reasonable suspicion. This means that one or more trained supervisors have a justifiable reason to believe or suspect that you may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Their suspicion must be grounded in observable factors such as your appearance, behavior, speech, and smell, which are typically associated with substance use. Testing cannot be required based solely on a hunch or guess.

- If you have breached the drug and alcohol testing regulations, you must complete a return-to-duty drug and/or alcohol test before resuming any safety-sensitive role with a DOT-regulated employer. Additionally, you may be subject to unannounced follow-up testing at least six times within the first year of your return to active safety-sensitive duties. Return-to-duty tests are conducted under direct observation.

- If you are involved in an incident (such as an accident or crash) that meets specific criteria set by the DOT agency, you will be required to undergo a post-accident drug test. This typically involves drug and alcohol testing following a qualifying crash. Each DOT agency has its own regulations regarding post-accident testing. For example, the FRA mandates a blood specimen for drug testing and an alcohol test. After a qualifying accident, you must remain available for testing and cannot refuse to comply.

- DOT follow-up testing is mandated for individuals who have violated drug and alcohol testing rules. The extent and duration of follow-up testing are determined by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and can continue for up to five years. The SAP will specify the frequency (at least six times in the first year), duration, and substances (drugs, alcohol, or both) to be tested. Employers are responsible for ensuring that follow-up testing is carried out and completed. All follow-up tests will be conducted under direct observation.