Drug Testing

● Pre-Employment Testing: Candidates applying for safety-sensitive positions must pass a DOT drug test before beginning employment.
● Random Testing: Employees in safety-sensitive roles are subject to unannounced, randomized testing throughout the year to discourage substance use.
● Reasonable Suspicion/Cause Testing: If an employer observes signs of drug use—such as erratic behavior, appearance, or other indicators—they may require the employee to take a drug test.
● Post-Accident Testing: Following certain workplace accidents, employees involved may be required to take a drug test to determine whether substance use contributed to the incident.
● Return-to-Duty Testing: Employees who have violated DOT drug and alcohol regulations must complete a return-to-duty drug test after rehabilitation before resuming safety-sensitive duties.
● Follow-Up Testing: Employees returning to duty after a policy violation are subject to unannounced follow-up testing as directed by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).

Most DOT drug tests involve a urine sample, though oral fluid testing is becoming more common. A certified collector will monitor the collection process to detect any signs of tampering. The sample is then split into two containers: Bottle A is sent to a lab for testing, and Bottle B is stored for retesting if needed. Result Review Process
• If Bottle A tests negative, the result is certified by a Medical Review Officer (MRO) and reported as such.
• If the result is positive, the MRO will contact the individual to determine if there is a valid medical explanation (e.g., prescription medication).     - If a valid reason is provided, the result is reported as negative.
   - If no valid explanation is given, the result is confirmed positive.
• The individual may request testing of Bottle B at another certified lab (at their own expense) to challenge the positive result. 

DOT 5-Panel Urine Drug Test
Tests for marijuana (THC), cocaine, amphetamines, opioids, and phencyclidine (PCP). Required for safety-sensitive employees regulated by DOT: (FAA, FMCSA, FRA, FTA, PHMSA, USCG)
DOT 5-Panel Return-to-Duty / Follow-Up Observed Drug Test
This observed test is required for individuals returning to work or undergoing follow-up testing after a policy violation.

• Negative Results: Typically available within 1–2 business days after the lab receives the specimen.
• Positive Results: May take 5–7 business days, depending on MRO review and confirmation steps.

In a directly observed collection, a trained observer (of the same gender as the donor) accompanies the individual into the restroom and watches the sample being provided to ensure authenticity and prevent tampering. This is typically required during return-to-duty or follow-up testing procedures.