It is a company’s responsibility to maintain a safe and secure workplace. By doing so, they can better protect their employees and customers. A way to accomplish this is through the implementation of a drug test. Depending on the business, they may not be regulated by the Department of Transportation Industry. Regardless, drug tests should still be enforced. Companies that fit under this category can administer non DOT drug tests. With this strategy, businesses can ensure safety and improve productivity.

What Should I Know About Drug Testing Near Me?

Depending on your place of residence and work location, there may be different non DOT drug tests available. Understandably, many may not be aware of what the DOT is. For clarification, “DOT” is the Department of Transportation Industry. Essentially, it is the governing body of the transportation industry. They are the organization in charge of enforcing safety regulations and standards. However, there are businesses that do not fall within the DOT jurisdiction. Nevertheless, workplace safety is of paramount importance. 

Unlike DOT drug tests, non DOT drug tests are less rigid. DOT drug tests will administer the 5-panel drug screen. This will test for Amphetamines, Cocaine, Marijuana, Opiates, and Phencyclidine. Certain tests may screen for alcohol abuse as well. It should be noted that non DOT drug tests may not screen for marijuana. This will be entirely up to the employer’s discretion. Alcohol will be treated the same, it is not a mandatory component of the test.

Moreover, the consequences of DOT and non DOT drug tests differ. Failure of a DOT drug test will result in an immediate removal from the company. Alternatively, non DOT employers can choose their punishment. For example, failure could lead to suspension without pay.

Furthermore, non DOT businesses choose how frequently their employees are tested. Also, they can decide how quickly employees can resume work once tested. In addition, they can pick which samples to take. Businesses can choose to collect blood, urine, or hair follicle samples for their employee drug tests.

Important Information About Non DOT Drug Tests

It is important to note that non DOT drug tests do not have to adhere to the 5-panel drug screen. Instead, they can opt for a 9 or 10-panel test. This will cover a wider range of substances and can offer a more thorough screening. With this option, employers can test for: 

• Barbiturates
• Benzodiazepine
• Methadone
• Methaqualone
• Propoxyphene

These are all drugs not tested under the standard DOT drug test. Additionally, a motivation for implementing non DOT drug tests is employee safety. While they may not be operating vehicles or heavy machinery, employees still need to practice workplace safety. Understandably, drug abuse can hinder those abilities. Therefore, it is necessary to test employees and confirm clean substance records. 

Furthermore, drug screenings can help keep customers safe. Depending on the business, employees may be in direct contact with clientele. For their safety, routine tests should be implemented. In the unfortunate scenario where someone is injured, the company may be held responsible. 

Finally, tests can be beneficial to the employees themselves. If someone is abusing illegal or prescription drugs, they clearly need help. Ultimately, non DOT drug tests can be the wake-up call they need to seek professional assistance.

How Soteria Screening Laboratories Can Help

Soteria Screening Laboratories understands the importance of drug test implementation. We know that they are administered for the safety of employees and customers. Therefore, it is our mission to provide excellent and thorough testing services. 

For more information, please email us at info@soteriascreening.com or call us at 202-679-6670. We look forward to hearing from you.