Mediterranean

1) What is the testing methodology required by DOT for the initial drugs of abuse testing?

The initial screening test is performed using immunoassay technology (EIA)

2) What is the confirmatory method used for testing when the initial screen is positive?

When the initial immunoassay testing screen is positive, it must be confirmed by an alternative method, Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry also referred to as GC/MS.  Effective May 2010, Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry also referred to as LC/MS or LC/MS/MS may be utilized

3) What is specimen validity testing?

Specimen validity testing (SVT) is performed on a urine drug screen to determine if the specimen is diluted, substituted, or adulterated.

Substitution-A specimen that is not characteristic of human urine. The substituted specimen could be water, salt water, soda, etc.

Adulteration-Adding a substance to the urine specimen after it was collected. The intent is to hide the drug present or chemically interfere with the testing process so that the drug cannot be detected.

Dilution-This is the result of the donor drinking large amounts of a liquid before the urine collection or it could be the result of a natural condition.

The DOT requires SVT on all urine specimens.

4) Who is subject to DOT drug testing?

Anyone designated as a safety-sensitive employee under the DOT mandated rule is subject to DOT drug testing.

5) What drugs does DOT test?

Marijuana metabolite/THC
Cocaine metabolites
Amphetamines including methamphetamine
Opiates including codeine, morphine
Phencyclidine (PCP)

6) What other drugs can non-mandated employers test?

Barbiturates    
Benzodiazepines   
Methadone    
Propoxyphene
Ecstasy
Synthetic or Expanded Opiates  

7) Does the DOT test for the synthetic opiates such as: Vicodin®, Dilaudid®, OxyContin® and Percodan®

The DOT drug testing panel tests codeine and morphine at 2000 ng/mL. Generally synthetic opiates are not detected at this level. You need to specifically test for hydrocodone, hydromorphone, and oxycodone to detect these synthetic opiates. DOT does not permit this additional testing but employers who are not regulated under DOT can test for these additional opiates also called expanded opiates.

8) What type of testing is required under DOT regulations?

Pre-employment
Reasonable suspicion/Cause
Random
Return-to-duty
Follow-up
Post-Accident

9) Can I perform random testing for my non-DOT workers?

It depends on the regulations for your particular state. Some states do not allow random testing for non-DOT workers.

10) If I have DOT workers in my company and the state law is different than DOT, which law do I follow, federal or state?

If you have DOT workers that hold safety-sensitive positions as defined by the DOT, the federal or DOT regulations supersede any state laws.

If you do not have DOT safety-sensitive workers as defined by the DOT, you must follow the state law where the specimen was collected.

11) Must I utilize a Medical Review Officer?

If you have DOT safety-sensitive workers, you must use a certified MRO. If you have non-DOT workers or DOT workers that do not hold safety-sensitive positions, you must follow the state regulations where the specimen was collected. Some states require the use of a MRO.

12) What is methamphetamine “d” and “l” isomer testing?

Methamphetamine is available in two forms, “d” an “l”. They have similar chemical components. The “d’ form is a prescription stimulant and an appetite suppressant. The “l” form is available over-the-counter as the active ingredient of Vick’s Inhaler as well as being a metabolite of certain prescription medications. Both the “d” and “l” will test  positive. This information helps the MRO determine with which type of drug he or she is encountering.

13) What is 6-acetylmorphine or 6-AM test?

6-acetylmorphine or 6-AM is an intermediate metabolite between heroin and morphine. It is present for a short time after the use of heroin and can help the MRO determine if the positive opiate is the result of heroin use.