What Substances are Tested for During a DOT Drug Test?
Have you recently failed a DOT drug and/or alcohol test? “The Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act required DOT Agencies to implement drug testing of safety-sensitive transportation employees in the aviation, trucking (including school bus drivers, and certain limousine and van drivers), railroads, mass transit, aviation and pipelines industries. In 1994, DOT added alcohol testing requirements to its regulations.”
When Must Safety-Sensitive Employees Take a DOT Drug Test?
Safety-sensitive employees must take a DOT drug and/or alcohol test at several appointed times throughout their employment. The first test is required for pre-employment. Regular drug and/or alcohol testing is then mandated at random intervals throughout employment and are required if certain accidents occur within the workplace. In addition, if there is reasonable suspicion of drug or alcohol use while in the workplace an employer must require the employee to submit to testing.
What Happens if an Employee Refuses?
While employees are allowed to refuse, a refusal is treated the same as a failed drug test. If an employee refuses to take a DOT drug and/or alcohol test then they are immediately removed from the workplace and must complete the return-to-duty process before they are allowed to return.
What Substances are Tested for During a DOT Drug Test?
The Department of Transportation requires a 5-panel drug test that tests specifically for these five classes of drugs:
- Amphetamines & Methamphetamines
- Opiates
- Marijuana
- PCP
- Cocaine
What Happens if You Fail?
If you failed then you must complete the return to duty process which begins by being evaluated by a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional. During this visit, the SAP will recommend a plan designed to help you overcome drug or alcohol use so that you can safely return to the workplace. Once you have completed the program, you will return to the SAP for a follow-up evaluation, and if the SAP determines compliance they will refer you to submit to a follow-up drug and/or alcohol test.
How Can I Find a SAP?
If you have failed or refused a DOT drug and/or alcohol test the easiest way to find an SAP is to take advantage of the services offered by SAP Referral Services (SRS), a service agent. SRS quickly schedules you an appointment with a qualified SAP in your area so you can begin the return to duty process. Contact SRS today to get the return-to-duty process started.