Alcohol tests must be administered within two (2) hours (or a report to the U.S. Department of Transportation must be sent that explains the delays).
Controlled substances tests should be conducted promptly.
3. Random Testing
Employees are randomly selected using a scientifically valid method.
Minimum testing rates: 10% of covered employees annually for alcohol and 50% of covered employees annual for controlled substances.
Alcohol tests occur during, immediately before, or after safety-sensitive functions.
Testing dates and times are unannounced, typically during normal work hours.
4. Reasonable Suspicion Testing
If a trained supervisor or official suspects alcohol misuse or controlled substance use, testing is required during normal work hours.
5. Return-to-Duty Testing
After a violation, employees must be evaluated, complete rehabilitation, and test negative before resuming safety-sensitive duties.
A negative test for alcohol is any reading showing an alcohol concentration of less than 0.02.
6. Follow-Up Testing
Employees identified by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) as needing assistance must undergo at least six (6) unannounced follow-up tests within 12 months of returning to duty. Employees bear the cost of these tests.
Testing Administration
1. Testing Facilities
Approved testing facilities will be communicated to covered employees, with updates provided as needed.
2. Testing Procedures
Alcohol: Conducted by a trained Breath Alcohol Technician using an EBTD.
Controlled Substances: Employees provide a urine sample, split into two (2) bottles, with a chain of custody form completed and sent to a Department of Health and Human Services-certified laboratory.
3. Failure to Report