DOT Mandatory Tests: What You Need to Know to Stay Compliant

If you work in transportation and perform safety-sensitive functions, such as operating commercial vehicles (trucks over 26,000 lbs or vehicles with more than 16 passengers), you must comply with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) alcohol and drug program.

This program aims to prevent and detect the misuse of alcohol and drugs among employees performing safety-critical tasks. It establishes regulations that include different types of tests.

Below, we explain what these tests are, what they involve, and their purpose.

Pre-Employment Test:

This test is conducted before a candidate begins working to prevent individuals with substance abuse problems from entering the transportation system. The result must be negative to be hired. Many companies are penalized by the DOT for administering this test after employment has started, which is prohibited.

Random Test:

This test is conducted periodically and without prior notice to detect alcohol and drug use. Employees are selected through an impartial lottery based on the transportation mode and must report when notified.

It is mandatory for all employees in safety-sensitive positions; refusing or tampering with the test results in immediate sanctions, including suspension if the result is positive.

Reasonable Suspicion Test:

This test is performed when there is evidence that an employee has violated the DOT alcohol and drug program rules. Evidence may be based on observation, behavior, performance, or conduct. It is applied when a supervisor or qualified official has reasonable suspicion that the employee is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or has consumed a prohibited substance.

The supervisor or official must document the reasons for the suspicion and notify the employee to undergo the test.

Post-Accident Test:

This test is carried out after an accident involving an employee performing safety-sensitive functions. Its purpose is to determine whether alcohol or drugs contributed to the accident. It is applied when the accident meets certain criteria established for each mode of transportation, such as the severity of injuries, property damage, employee responsibility, etc.

The employee must remain available for the test and refrain from consuming alcohol or drugs until the test is completed or otherwise instructed.

Return-to-Duty Test:

This test is conducted when an employee who has violated the DOT alcohol and drug program rules has completed the required evaluation, treatment, and follow-up process.Its purpose is to verify that the employee is fit to return to safety-sensitive duties.

It applies to employees who tested positive on a previous test, admitted to using prohibited substances, or refused to take a test. The result must be negative for the employee to return to work.

Follow-Up Test:

This test is performed on employees who have returned to work after violating the DOT alcohol and drug program. Its goal is to ensure that the employee remains substance-free and complies with the recommended treatment plan.

The schedule is determined by the professional overseeing the employee’s evaluation and treatment.The schedule must include at least six tests during the first twelve months after returning to work and may extend up to sixty months.

Complying with DOT alcohol and drug tests is essential to ensure safety, trust, and legal compliance in commercial transportation.

At Trucking Services & Logistics, we help you keep your company compliant with all DOT regulations.

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