On May 2, 2023, the Department of Transportation (DOT) published a final rule that authorizes employers to use oral fluid drug testing as an alternative testing methodology to urine drug testing. This additional methodology will give employers more flexibility for drug tests and provide a less intrusive means of achieving the safety goals of the program. The final rule is effective on June 1, 2023.
The final rule also:
- Harmonizes with pertinent section of the HHS oral fluid Mandatory Guidelines
- Clarifies certain Part 40 provisions that cover urine drug testing procedures
- Removes provisions that are no longer necessary
- Adds eight new definitions, clarifying language to definitions and web links
- Updates provisions to address issues that have risen in recent year.
To learn more about this final rule, view the rule at https://www.transportation.gov/odapc/frpubs
Along with this, The Office of Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance (ODAPC) is introducing a short series of reminders called ‘Back to Basics’ for service agents. Following procedures and doing it right the first time is important for protecting the safety of the traveling public, protecting the integrity of the testing process, and making sure that the process is fair to employees. ‘Back to Basics’ points out the more common issues we hear regarding the drug and alcohol testing process.
To view ‘Back to Basics‘ for urine collectors, visit https://www.transportation.gov/odapc/back_to_basics