Trucking companies that fall under the jurisdiction of the US Department of Transportation (DOT) must establish a drug and alcohol testing program that adheres to DOT regulations. Adhering to these regulations helps ensure the safety of employees and the public by identifying and addressing substance abuse issues in the workplace.

In this article, we will discover eight steps to achieving DOT drug testing compliance for trucking companies.

Steps for trucking companies to remain DOT compliant

Ensuring compliance with the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations is crucial for trucking companies to operate safely and avoid costly penalties, and there are several steps companies can take to achieve and maintain compliance:

1. Verify your obligation to have a DOT drug and alcohol testing program

Determine whether your trucking company falls under DOT regulations that require a drug and alcohol testing program.

2. Draft a DOT drug and alcohol testing policy

Create a written policy that clearly outlines the procedures of the drug and alcohol testing program, including consequences for positive test results, the rights of employees, and other necessary provisions.

3. Educate drivers

Provide educational materials to your drivers about the drug and alcohol testing program, the dangers of substance abuse, and how it impacts job performance.

4. Train supervisors to identify reasonable suspicion

Offer training to supervisors to help them recognize signs and symptoms of drug and alcohol use and how to handle situations involving reasonable suspicion.

5. Register in the FMCSA Clearinghouse

Register in the FMCSA Clearinghouse, query new drivers and perform annual queries to ensure that the drivers are not prohibited from performing safety-sensitive functions due to unresolved drug and alcohol violations.

6. Conduct required drug and alcohol testing

Conduct the required drug and alcohol testing, including pre-employment testing, random testing, and post-accident testing.

7. Remove drivers with prohibited status

Remove drivers from performing safety-sensitive functions who have violations or a prohibited status.

Maintain complete records

Keep complete and accurate records of the drug and alcohol testing program, including results of drug and alcohol tests, the date of the tests, and employee consent forms.

Key Takeaway

Complying with DOT drug testing regulations is a critical aspect of running a successful trucking company. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your company is in full compliance with DOT drug testing requirements. This will not only keep your drivers and the public safe, but it will also help you avoid costly fines and legal issues. Remember, drug testing is an essential component of ensuring that your drivers are fit for duty and able to operate commercial vehicles safely. So, take the necessary steps to ensure that your company is DOT-compliant and prioritize the safety of everyone on the road.

Stay DOT-Compliant with goMDnow services

goMDnow offers comprehensive drug and alcohol testing services that can help trucking companies remain DOT-compliant.

Our services include pre-employment testing, random testing, post-accident testing, and reasonable suspicion testing, all of which are designed to ensure that drivers are fit for duty and able to operate commercial vehicles safely.

By partnering with goMDnow for drug and alcohol testing services, trucking companies can rest assured that they are in full compliance with DOT regulations. We provide all necessary documentation and help companies stay up-to-date with changing regulations, so they can focus on their core business operations.