2022 Random Testing Rates for DOT Modes
If you are a DOT-mandated safety-sensitive employee, you will have to submit to DOT-mandated drug and/or alcohol tests. All employees must take a DOT-mandated drug and/or alcohol test to be hired, after certain accidents, and due to reasonable suspicion, but many employees don’t realize that they may be subject to random testing throughout their career. The federal government takes DOT drug and alcohol testing very seriously to keep the public safe. Those who fail, or refuse to submit to, mandated drug and/or alcohol testing have the option to meet with Substance Abuse Professionals to return to work.
What is Random DOT Drug and/or Alcohol Testing?
Much like the name implies, random DOT testing is when an employee is randomly selected by their employer to be drug and alcohol tested. To remain aligned with DOT regulations, all employers that work with safety-sensitive employees must refer employees for a certain number of drug tests annually. Each DOT mode has an assigned random testing rate. If you are chosen as a random employee, you must submit to a drug test. If you fail, or refuse to submit, you must go through the return to duty process with qualified Substance Abuse Professionals.
What are the Random Drug Testing Rates for Each DOT Mode?
The Federal Government updates its random testing rates for each DOT mode every year. This year the 2022 random testing rates for each DOT Mode are as follows:
- FMCSA = 50%
- FAA = 25%
- FRA = 25%
- FTA = 50%
- PHMSA = 50%
Why Would a DOT-Mandated Employee Need Substance Abuse Professionals?
If a DOT-mandated employee submits a positive result on their random drug and/or alcohol test, they will need to find a qualified SAP in their area quickly. They can not return to their safety-sensitive duties until they have gone through the return to duty process and successfully complied. This process involves meeting with Substance Abuse Professionals who evaluate them and recommend an appropriate treatment and/or education plan for the employee. Once they have shown compliance, an employee is able to return to see the SAP and get clearance to take another drug and/or alcohol test. If they pass, they are allowed to return to their safety-sensitive duties.
Looking for a SAP? SRS can help you find a qualified provider in your area so that you can return to work in a timely fashion following a failed drug and/or alcohol test. Contact us today to get your career back on track.