If you work in the transportation sector and perform functions considered sensitive, such as driving a commercial vehicle (truck of more than 26,000lb or more than 16 passengers), you are subject to the regulation established through the alcohol and drug program of the Department of Transportation of the United States.
This program aims to prevent and detect, early, the misuse of alcohol and drugs among employees who perform these functions. To this end, the program establishes a series of standards and procedures that include, among others, the performance of different types of tests. In this article we will explain what these types of tests are, what they consist of and what their objective is.
The types of tests within the DOT's alcohol and drug program are:
Pre-employment test: It is performed before a potential employee begins to perform safety-sensitive functions. Its objective is to prevent people with substance abuse problems from entering the transportation system. This test applies to all candidates who apply for a job that requires performing safety-sensitive functions, such as drivers, pilots, mechanics, controllers, etc. The result of the test must be negative for the candidate to be hired and start performing their functions.
The main reason why transportation companies receive fines in their audits is for not performing pre-employment tests on time, since in most cases they are carried out after the driver started work and not before, as indicated by DOT regulations.
Random test: It is performed periodically and randomly to employees who perform safety-sensitive functions. Its objective is to deter and detect the misuse of alcohol and drugs. This test is based on a random draw among employees who are subject to the DOT's alcohol and drug program. The draw is made with a determined frequency, for each mode of transportation (aviation, road, rail, etc.) and the employee must present themselves to the test as soon as they are notified.
Reasonable suspicion test: This is done when there is evidence that an employee has violated the DOT's alcohol and drug program rules. The evidence can be based on the observation, behavior, performance or conduct of the employee. This test applies when a supervisor or a qualified officer has a reasonable suspicion that the employee is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or has consumed any prohibited substance. The supervisor or officer must document the reasons for the suspicion and notify the employee to undergo the test.
Post-accident test: This is done after an accident involving an employee who performs safety-sensitive functions. It aims to determine if alcohol or drugs were a contributing factor to the accident. This test applies when the accident meets certain criteria established by each mode of transportation, such as the severity of injuries, property damage, employee liability, etc. The employee must remain available for testing and refrain from consuming alcohol or drugs until the test is performed or otherwise instructed.
Return-to-duty test: This is done when an employee, who has violated the DOT's alcohol and drug program rules, has completed the required evaluation, treatment and follow-up process. It aims to verify that the employee is fit to return to perform safety-sensitive functions. This test applies to employees who have tested positive in a previous test, or who have admitted to consuming prohibited substances, or who have refused to undergo a test. The test result must be negative for the employee to return to work.
Follow-up test: This is done to employees who have returned to work after a violation of the DOT's alcohol and drug program rules. The aim is to ensure that the employee remains free of substances and complies with the recommended treatment plan. This test is applied according to a schedule established by the professional in charge of the employee's evaluation and treatment. The schedule must include at least six tests in the first twelve months after returning to work, and may be extended up to sixty months.
These types of tests have the general purpose of ensuring the safety and health of employees, passengers, the public and the environment, as well as complying with federal DOT regulations.
At Trucking Services & Logistics, we are specialists in solving all your doubts, also remember that we can give you the necessary assistance in issues concerning the DOT. Do not forget to follow our social networks (Facebook , Instagram, Twitter, Tik Tok and LinkedIn) or call (813) 864 62 87 or WhatsApp (813) 435 69 24, to obtain more detailed information.
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