Frequently Asked Questions
You've got questions, we've got answers! Below is a compilation of common questions we get - if you have one that isn't listed, be sure to reach out.
General Drug Testing FAQ
What drugs does a 5 Panel Drug test look for?
- Marijuana/Cannabis (THC)
- Cocaine (COC)
- Opiates (OPI)
- Amphetamines (AMP)
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
What drugs does a 10 Panel Drug test look for?
- Cocaine
- Marijuana
- PCP
- Amphetamines
- Opiates
- Benzodiazepines
- Barbiturates
- Methadone
- Propoxyphene
- Quaaludes
How far back can a drug test go?
With a urine drug test, phenobarbital will exist in the system between 6-48 hours, marijuana and THC can be detected for as long as two months depending on usage, morphine is detected up to 3 days,
The drug detection time in urine drug tests is a rough estimate since there are many factors that can make these detection windows longer or shorter such as type of drug, frequency of use, body mass, hydration levels, physical activity, gender, and metabolic rate.
With hair follicle tests, the drug can be detected for a greater length of time. For marijuana, heroin, fentanyl, and other substances, it can be as much as 90 days.
How do I create a drug and alcohol testing policy for my company?
At RI MA Drug Testing, we can create a custom policy designed specifically for your company’s needs by going over a Drug Free Workplace Policy Questionnaire with you, either over the phone or at your office. This is for DOT and non DOT companies.
You will receive a compliance binder which will include:
- Step by step instructions and all required documents for program management.
- Written drug & alcohol testing policies for distribution to employees.
- Supervisor training materials and access to live or on line additional supervisor training.
- Employee assistance programs (EAP) information and resources for rehabilitation, and treatment programs information.
- Access to Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) for DOT violations.
- Copies of any applicable regulations.
- Random testing instructions for any DOT required random testing.
- All required forms for compliance.
- Instructions for required record keeping.
Learn More About Custom Policies...
DOT-Specific Drug Testing FAQ
As an owner operator, do I need to be compliant with DOT Drug Testing Regulations?
That depends. There is a series of guidelines to address that question below. Many owner operators are unaware that they are not in compliance with regulations, and the need for pre-employment and random testing may seem unnecessary as an owner operator — but it is in fact the law if you meet any of the criteria below.
As an owner operator or small employer, you must be compliant with DOT and FMCSA regulations for drug and alcohol testing if you meet any of the following criteria:
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 lbs. or more.
- Transporting 16 passengers or more.
- Transporting Hazardous Materials.
A review of FMCSA regulation Part 382 shows that the DOT mandates owner operators to belong to a DOT Consortium that includes pre-employment, random, post – accident, and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing of drivers.
Failure to comply with FMCSA Part 382 can result in fines ranging from $250.00 per violation to $10,000.00. In many cases your authorization to drive a commercial vehicle can be revoked. Are you in compliance?
What drugs does the DOT 5 Panel look for? Is it any different than the regular 5 Panel?
While the test may be the same, it is important to ensure that you have a DOT-specific test performed if required. While a regular 5 Panel Drug Test may test for the presence of the same exact drugs as the DOT 5 Panel, the DOT Testing requires the lab performing the test to be Substance Abuse and Mental health Services Administration (SAMHSA) certified. To be certified, labs must test according to Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Department of Transportation (DOT) guidelines.
As with the regular 5 Panel, the DOT-Specific 5 Panel Drug Test looks for:
- Marijuana/Cannabis (THC)
- Cocaine (COC)
- Opiates (OPI)
- Amphetamines (AMP)
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
How do owner/operators stay compliant with the FMCSA/DOT?
Owner-operators that operate either intrastate or interstate must participate in a DOT drug and alcohol testing program. RI MA Drug Testing acts as a consortium/third party administrator making it easy to abide by these FMCSA/DOT regulations.
How do I learn how to be a DOT supervisor?
Contact us at RI MA Drug Testing. We offer an online, self-guided course that will teach one how to recognize the signs and symptoms of drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace. This is essential for companies setting up or running a drug free workplace program.
Managers will learn how to:
• Recognize safety issues and possible substance abuse.
• Confront an employee or co-worker that may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Properly document reasonable suspicion situations.
Learn More About Becoming A DOT Supervisor
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