Learn all about DOT and FAA drug testing
Posted by CesarMuler on September 22nd, 2015
Workplace safety is the first priority of every organization and its cornerstone is to ensure that the employees remain drug and alcohol free. Over the years, the transportation sector of United States of America has been trying its best to minimize accidents (road, air and water). The DOT drug testing agencies like FAA, FMCSA, FTA, USCG etc., with their regulations on testing, have been instrumental in trying to eliminating accidents due to substance abuse. Many organizations have come up that specialize in tests like FAA drug testing and others to help workplaces to be drug free.
According to reports by the US department of Justice, drug abuse cases cost US organizations more than 0 billion each year. Accidents like aircraft crashes, road accidents, ship wrecks, fires, theft etc. are many a time associated with the harmful use of drugs in workplaces. Since safety is one of the building blocks of a successful organization, it is vital to keep the workplace drug free in order to safeguard the safety of the employees and the public. That is why it is imperative for every employee to undergo the DOT drug testing. The transportation sector’s testing is divided into several categories like FAA drug testing for the aviation industry, FMCSA for road transportation, USCG for the navy etc.
Undergoing annual DOT drug testing by employees of aviation, railway, roadway or waterway industries not only aims to minimize fatal accidents and deaths but also builds confidence and trust of clients. Moreover, a drug-free workplace works better and more efficiently. That is why testing plays a crucial part even in the hiring process. Under the transportation system, it is the aviation industry that has the least cases of accidents but sadly the most fatal ones. In order to assure the safety of the public and employees, the FAA drug testing is a must for all part time, full time and temporary employees.
Coming to the procedure of the DOT drug testing, there are a number of consortiums that specialize in performing tests in compliance with the rules and regulations of FAA, FMCSA etc. The four main steps of the FAA drug testing is conducting the test, transporting the specimens to a lab, analyzing them and preparing the reports which might require administrative actions. The tests are conducted in accredited labs by highly qualified specialists. A good consortium ensures error free collection and maintains privacy of reports. Collection of blood, urine or sputum samples and their testing are done as per regulations laid down by the federal authorities thus ensuring fair and unbiased analyses.
Some consortiums verify and review the FAA drug testing results with a physician in order to eliminate any kind of errors. Once the results are collated, the consortium hands out the results to the employer who may then take action on repeat offenders. Moreover, some consortiums also offer training to employees in order to make them aware of their responsibilities and the importance of a drug-free workplace. Other services from them include background checks, audit packages, database management etc. Regular DOT drug testing exercises are safe and trusted methods that can ensure a safe and hazard free workplace.
DOT drug testing program with a top consortium is crucial in order to maintain a drug-free workplace. Partner with one of the best consortiums for an error free, confidential FAA drug testing program.
