Even though it’s the smallest state in terms of actual land area, Delaware is still strategically positioned to offer great access and resources when it comes to the transportation industry. While it’s highly regulated, Fleet Drug Testing is here to assist you in following all DOT regulations set for the transportation industry. Our comprehensive programs address all aspects of drug testing, even aiding you in locating convenient testing locations near you. Whether your route revolves around Dover or Wilmington, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to get the process started or visit our enrollment page to explore our programs.

When Are You Drug Tested in Delaware?

Not everyone who works in Delaware is subject to drug testing and other strict regulations, but those in the transportation industry are. This isn’t surprising when you consider the DOT’s main goal is to take measures to guarantee the safety of everyone on the road, air, or rail. While this is indeed a heavy responsibility, one of the ways they do this is by instituting a drug testing program for all “safety-sensitive” employees.

A safety-sensitive employee is anyone whose:

• Job responsibilities have a direct impact on the safety of others, such as drivers, air traffic controllers or engineers.
  
  

Moreover, the Department of Transportation (DOT) has outlined specific conditions under which drug testing is required. These conditions, in accordance with regulations, include:

• Pre-employment testing – Carried out prior to hiring to confirm that new employees are free from drugs and alcohol when starting safety-sensitive jobs.
  
  

• Post-accident testing – Implemented after work-related accidents or incidents to assess whether drugs or alcohol were contributing factors.
  
  

• Random testing – Employees are selected randomly for drug and alcohol testing throughout the year, following DOT-established rates. Currently, 50% undergo drug testing, and 10% undergo alcohol testing, fostering a safer work environment.
  
  

• Return-to-duty testing – Employees with prior positive tests or violations of DOT regulations must undergo testing to demonstrate their cessation of drug or alcohol use and their fitness for safety-sensitive duties.
  
  

• Follow-up testing – After completing the return-to-duty process, employees continue with ongoing testing as part of their follow-up program, ensuring they remain free from drugs and alcohol to uphold their safety-sensitive positions.
  
  

Obviously, being ready for drug testing is an extremely important part of your job as a safety-sensitive employee in the Delaware transportation industry. With that said, it’s always good to have an idea of how you can make the process easier. This is something our team takes great pride in.

What Do We Look For in Delaware Drug Testing Locations?

Reporting for drug testing is only one part of the equation when it comes to DOT regulations. Because the agency has vast resources and is able to tightly control the program, it also sets strict guidelines for where tests are to be conducted. That’s where our team comes in to assist you. We eliminate the uncertainty of finding a nearby location that adheres to all DOT rules and provides accurate and prompt results.

When we try to find a drug testing location in Delaware, here’s what we look for: 

• Being certified – We can verify that the facility is certified by SAMHSA and complies with all DOT drug testing requirements in Delaware.
  
  

• Having experience – Obviously, we use facilities with a track record of conducting DOT and various other types of drug tests.
  
  

• Reputable – We check online reviews or seek recommendations from others who have utilized the facility’s services to gauge its reputation.
  
  

• Conveniently located – We prioritize your convenience by selecting a facility close to your workplace or along your regular route.
  
  

• Testing methods – Our network of drug testing locations are well-versed in the appropriate testing methods mandated by DOT, such as urine or saliva.
  
  

• Turnaround time – We determine how quickly the facility can provide test results and make sure it aligns with your requirements.
  
  

• Confidentiality – Our team can locate a facility near you that prioritizes privacy, with established measures to safeguard the confidentiality of test results.
  
  

While drug testing may seem intimidating, it plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of transportation workers and the public. FollowingDOT regulations is crucial for maintaining your license, and our team can assist you in staying compliant with drug testing regulations, making the process seamless and convenient.

How Does the DOT Drug Testing Process Work in Delaware?

The good news, at least from your perspective as a safety-sensitive employee, is that the actual procedure for drug testing works the same throughout Delaware. While we can take the guesswork out of finding a location that meets all DOT requirements, you still have to make sure you pass the test. With that said, understanding the procedure can help you better prepare:

• Employers must inform employees about testing procedures and where it will take place. A trained collector at the testing site gathers a urine sample, labeling and sealing it. The sample is divided into two: one sent to a certified lab for testing, the other kept in case of result challenges.
  
  

• The lab uses an immunoassay test on the primary specimen. If positive, a confirmation test (GC/MS) is done. A Medical Review Officer (MRO) reviews results, contacting the employee for positive outcomes. The MRO checks for prescription medications; a valid explanation results in a negative report.
  
  

• The MRO informs the employer, necessitating immediate removal for positive tests. The employer may need to report to the DOT. Employees with positive results undergo a substance abuse evaluation and follow-up testing, needing a negative return-to-duty test before resuming safety-sensitive duties.
  
  

Both employers and employees must follow the testing program and DOT regulations for compliance. Continuous testing and reporting are required by DOT rules, and it’s crucial to understand the consequences of not complying. Compliance ultimately starts with finding a convenient testing location, as well as having other programs that Fleet Drug Testing can provide.

Get Help From Fleet Drug Testing in Delaware

If your job or livelihood in Delaware depends on DOT regulations, Fleet Drug Testing can help you. We’ll give you access to convenient testing locations, set up programs that cover drug testing needs and regulations, and give your business the peace of mind it needs to keep moving ahead. Contact us today to get started.