What Exactly Is a Non-DOT Drug Test?

When you are offered a job, it is rather normal to be requested to submit to a drug and alcohol test. In some situations, an offer of employment will not become official until the test is passed. Many firms also require current employees to submit to drug and alcohol testing on a regular basis to guarantee that no one is under the influence at work. Difference in DOT drug test vs. non-DOT drug test is necessary for persons who work with the Department of Transportation, such as pilots, truck drivers, coast guards, and boat captains.

DOT testing is conducted in accordance with federal, rather than state, drug testing criteria, which means the testing procedure is significantly more stringent. However, testing is usually restricted to primary drug classes: cocaine, marijuana, opioids, PCP, and amphetamines/methamphetamines.

The 5-panel test now includes an expanded opiate panel. The DOT drug test is a urine test, but the department has sought a move to a hair follicle test and is currently awaiting the law’s implementation. An alcohol test is also performed by an operator using a breathalyser machine.

Non-DOT testing is used for jobs that aren’t regarded “safety-sensitive.” These tests, may check for a broader spectrum of chemicals. Cannabinoids, cocaine, amphetamines/methamphetamines, opioids, PCP, methadone, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, MDMA, flaka, steroids, nicotine, and tricyclic antidepressants are among the drugs that may be tested for. You can do DOT drug test vs. non-DOT drug test in lab as well.

An employer can specify the substances he wants his employees tested for, as well as his own regulations for employee drug testing, such as how frequently tests are performed and what steps should be followed if an employee tests positive.

The guideline is different for safety-sensitive employees because federal law prioritises public safety over an employee’s individual privacy concerns. For example, preventing an intoxicated airline pilot from taking the controls is more vital than protecting his privacy by waiting for objective indicators of alcohol consumption before giving a test. In the end, if someone wants to fly a passenger jet, deliver flammable chemicals, or lead a fast locomotive for a living.