The transportation industry is a huge driver of the economy in Georgia. According to data from the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the transportation industry employed over 1.5 million people throughout the state as of April 2022.
If your business relies on transportation, one of the most significant obstacles you face on a day-to-day basis is complying with the extensive rules and regulations that govern the industry. Among the most important regulations are the federal Department of Transportation’s (DOT) drug testing program.
Fleet Drug Testing Has Enrollment Programs To Meet Your Needs
To address this challenge, Fleet Drug Testing presents a practical approach: identifying convenient testing locations in your vicinity. Through our efforts, we eliminate the uncertainty of locating testing sites and guarantee accurate outcomes, thus maintaining the continuous operation of your fleet.
Whether your journey takes you along Interstate 20 through Atlanta or through Savannah on Interstate 95, Fleet Drug Testing can help you find a suitable testing location. To get started with the process, reach out to us today or explore any of our available programs.
What Are the DOT Drug Testing Requirements in Georgia?
Just like other states, Georgia’s transportation industry is regulated by the United States Department of Transportation (DOT). This is the main government agency that makes sure the transportation industry is safe and works efficiently. Obviously, this is a tall task. The transportation industry covers everything from cars to airplanes.
In terms of a drug testing program, the DOT’s program applies to “safety-sensitive” workers. These workers include anyone whose responsibilities affect the overall safety of others. Generally, this is understood to include:
- Truck drivers
- Bus drivers
- Pilots
- Air Traffic Controllers
- Ship captains and crew
- Engineers
- Conductors
- Railroad workers
For these employees, the DOT has established specific rules and regulations on top of drug testing. However, the DOT’s drug testing program requires these employees to be tested at the following intervals:
- Pre-Employment – Before someone is hired to work in a safety-sensitive job, they need to undergo testing for drugs and alcohol. This helps ensure that the people who are going to be responsible for transportation are in a good condition to do their job safely.
- Post-Accident – If there’s an accident involving a commercial vehicle, the driver and sometimes other employees involved need to be tested for drugs and alcohol. This helps figure out if these substances might have contributed to the accident.
- Random Testing – To keep things fair and to discourage substance use among transportation workers, a certain percentage of them are chosen randomly throughout the year for drug and alcohol testing. Currently, the DOT sets the rates at 50% for drug testing and 10% for alcohol testing. This way, employees know that at any time, they might be tested.
- Return-to-Duty – When a safety-sensitive worker has been away from their job due to issues related to drugs or alcohol, they need to be tested before they can start working again. This ensures that they are no longer under the influence and can carry out their duties safely.
- Follow-Up Testing – After a safety-sensitive worker returns to work following a period of substance-related issues, they might need to undergo regular testing for some time. This helps to ensure they remain free from drugs and alcohol and can continue to perform their job safely.
Currently, the DOT mandates that marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opioids, and PCP be tested for. Usually, testing panels will be collected through either a urine or saliva sample. While it can be somewhat intimidating, it’s important to always be prepared for testing, especially if you’re a safety-sensitive employee in Georgia.
How Should You Prepare For a DOT Drug Test in Georgia?
Although it can be intimidating to be under DOT regulations, preparing for actual testing isn’t that complicated. As long as you refrain from drug use–aside from any necessary medications, which are allowed if you show your medical need for the substance–and comply with other requirements, the drug testing program is fairly straightforward.
However, preparing for a drug test can make the process a bit smoother. Generally, the best way to prepare for a DOT drug test includes doing the following:
- Be careful with medications – Refrain from taking any drugs or medications that could potentially lead to a false positive on the test. If you’re on prescribed medicines, inform the test administrator about them.
- Properly hydrate – Maintain proper hydration by consuming an adequate amount of fluids. This is important because you’ll be required to provide a urine sample. However, avoid excessive consumption, as it could impact the accuracy of the results. If you’re having difficulty providing a sample, don’t hesitate to communicate this to the administrator.
- Follow instructions – Follow the instructions provided by the test administrator diligently. Remember to bring a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Be on time – Arrive on time for the test appointment. You might need to complete some paperwork and provide the urine sample. Dress in comfortable attire that can be easily removed and won’t interfere with the sample collection process.
Being well-prepared for the test contributes to obtaining accurate results. These results benefit both you and your employer. Adhering to the regulations outlined by the DOT ensures smooth operations and supports your family. Not only does this help your ability to keep your job, it’s an investment in safety, reliability, and the well-being of everyone you share the road with.
Make Sure You Stay Compliant With Fleet Drug Testing
If you’re in the transportation industry in Georgia, you’re well aware of the importance of following the DOT drug testing program. Whether you own and operate your own vehicle or work for a company, compliance with regulations shows that you care about the health and safety of your workers and the public. To keep your business going well, you need to do what the program asks. So, it’s a good idea to have a plan for where you can get testing done.
At Fleet Drug Testing, we understand how much it matters for you to follow all the DOT’s regulations. Our team can help you with everything you need to do for these regulations. We can find a location for drug testing and ensure the accuracy and reporting of the results. Just get in touch with us today to start or enroll in any of our other programs.
