Employers use workplace alcohol screening for specific reasons. Federally regulated workers (e.g., CDL drivers) require random alcohol testing. For others, alcohol testing may be conducted randomly, post-accident, due to suspicion, or for site access. The test helps maintain a safe, productive environment and reduce risks. Different alcohol testing methods are used in workplaces, including [...]
While consuming alcohol is legal for adults over 21 in all U.S. states, alcohol testing for drivers enforces stricter rules for CDL holders. They cannot have a breath alcohol concentration of .02 or higher while performing safety-sensitive tasks. Alcohol impairs judgment and increases risky behavior on the road. Due to these dangers, the Federal [...]
In the midst of a global pandemic with confusing and conflicting information about how the coronavirus is transmitted, many breath alcohol technicians are uncomfortable conducting breath tests. Makes sense. Even with precautions, including using a private area outdoors, there is an individual exhaling strongly in close proximity to the BAT (Breath Alcohol Technician). The [...]
What the Heck is EtG test? Ethyl Glucuronide, aka EtG, is a metabolite of ethanol. A metabolite is simply what your body produces in response to the ingestion of ethanol. Two Types Of Tests: Hair follicle EtG alcohol test: Hair is cut at skin level (not actually the follicle) and sent to the lab [...]
Post-accident drug and alcohol testing is alive and well. OSHA's Stance on Post-Accident Drug Testing On October 11, 2018, OSHA published a memorandum clarifying that there is no prohibition against post-accident drug and alcohol testing. Previously, OSHA indicated that employers could not use “drug testing (or the threat of drug testing) as a form [...]
With workplace addiction at an all-time high, many businesses are choosing more proactive steps to ensure that their workforce is healthy and productive. Unfortunately, an accident is often the first clue that a problem exists. American businesses lose 81 billion dollars per year due to drug use – most of which is incurred before [...]
Yes. A BIG FAT yes. Some companies mistakenly think that getting drug test results directly from a lab or from an in-house-administered instant test is good enough. And after reading this, they may still consider it worth the risk. But make no mistake. There are risks. Ultimately, you are responsible for ensuring a fair, reliable [...]
If it’s a truck driver, it’s your responsibility to find out Many employers make an offer of employment contingent upon the results of a criminal background check and drug test. If the candidates pass, they’re hired. Employers regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation, however, have another important requirement. First, you must ask the [...]
A worker has an accident. Someone may or may not be hurt. Perhaps the incident could have been averted with a decent random testing program, but it’s too late to think about that. Note to self: “Add random testing program to next week’s company meeting agenda.” The Legal Advantage of Post-Accident Testing Now what? [...]
Would you rather build a fence at the top of a cliff, or park an ambulance at the bottom? That’s why we wear seat belts. It’s why we cook our chicken thoroughly. It’s why we watch our blood pressure and cholesterol. And it’s why we create safe workplaces. We want to prevent tragic events [...]
