JULY 30, 2019 – In 2019 so far, over 25 percent of all audit violations were from noncompliance with DOT-regulated drug and alcohol testing requirements. This has resulted in carriers being been hit with over $9 million in fines, with an average fine amount of almost $9,000.
This data illustrates the complexity of running a compliant drug and alcohol testing program – something that the vast majority of interstate carriers must have in place to comply with federal regulations. Because of the level of expertise (and time) required to run a compliant program, most carriers opt to partner with a DOT drug testing provider to manage a compliant program on their behalf. Provided you select the right partner, working with a third-party administrator will ensure that all of your drug testing requirements are met – with very little work on your part.
What to Look for in a Partner
#1 A DOT-Specific Program
Your drug and alcohol testing program must meet all DOT requirements in terms of things like the types of tests provided, the collection process and the random testing rate. Failing to implement a random testing program and using a driver before receiving a negative pre-employment test result were a few of the biggest violations this year. With the support of a fully-compliant partner, the probability of such a violation occurring becomes almost nonexistent.
#2: Availability of Testing Locations
Especially when you’re managing interstate drivers, it’s important to know that they’ll always be in close proximity to a DOT collection site. That way, if they get pulled for a random drug test while out on the road, or require post-accident testing, they’ll be able to meet those requirements without going too far out of the way.
When evaluating DOT drug testing providers, look for one that has a large network of collection sites for you to choose from. This will make it easier for you and your drivers to operate compliantly.
#3: Online Program Management
Managing your drivers’ compliance from the convenience of an online portal eliminates time-consuming paperwork and enables you to easily view random notifications, add or delete drivers from your program and review drug testing results as they become available. All of this data is stored securely and is made available from any Internet-enable device, ensuring that all of your testing documentation is organized and readily available in case of an audit.
#4: Clearinghouse Compliance
Clearinghouse compliance will be a big one as we head into 2020 and the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse goes into effect. This will be a significant change for the industry, with carriers, drivers, MROs and third-party administrators being required to set up portal accounts for the purpose of either reporting non-negative drug test results or querying the database during the pre-hire process to check on a new driver’s drug test history.
Understanding the Clearinghouse and what is required for full compliance will become very important in the months ahead, and carriers will want to ensure that they’re working with a partner that is knowledgeable and prepared for full Clearinghouse compliance.
Related Article: Understanding the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse
#5: Electronic Chain of Custody Form (eCCF) Capabilities
Electronic Chain of Custody Forms (eCCFs) simplify the process of sending employees for drug tests by eliminating the handoff of paper throughout the process. Forms are automatically sent to the drug testing facility and updated electronically throughout the process – simplifying the process and eliminating legibility and transcription errors. For Foley portal customers, employers are able to get real-time updates on the status of an employee’s drug test as well, something that couldn’t be accomplished with paper forms.
Related Article: Top Audit Violations of 2019
Here at Foley, we’ve been paying close attention to the upcoming Clearinghouse and are prepared to help our current and future customers comply with their new drug and alcohol testing requirements through a comprehensive, online solution. To learn more about our DOT drug and alcohol testing program, please give us a call at (860) 815-0869 or click here to visit us online.
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