DISA Global Solutions, an industry leader in the background, drug & alcohol screening business has changed the Chain of Custody (CoC) process in order to create a more effective and efficient way of screening.
The Electronic Custody and Control Form, or eCCF, will allow DISA clients to provide a more seamless and error-free process. Since implementing the new system, DISA has noticed a 25% faster turnaround time in test results.
A CCF (Custody & Control Form) is used in processing of all drug tests, is used to create a paper trail because so many different people, departments, and companies have their hands on a single test throughout the process. In recent years, it has become more common for employers to implement an electronic version, like DISA’s eCCF. As of April 13, 2015, the Department of Transportation has established new rules allowing DOT regulated employers to distribute eCCF for federal drug testing programs.
An eCCF works in the same manner as a manual form, but reduces the hassle of paper, and reduces the likelihood of workers creating errors. DISA notes a streamlined collection process, ensuring best practices for each form. The faster and more secure distribution of forms reduces the length of time for the entire drug testing process. The tedious task of manually filling out forms can cause simple mistakes, while using a computer helps guide you through the steps, and prevent errors from illegible handwriting. A typed form is more legible for all those who compared to one that is written by hand.
Real-Life Applications
As of January 1, 2018, DOT changed regulations, which expanded their drug testing to include hydrocodone, hydromorphone, oxymorphone, and oxycodone for truck drivers and other “safety-sensitive” transportation employees. With the addition of four new drugs to the DOT panel, and the increased MRO activity, users could see an increase in average turnaround time for non-negative DOT drug tests. Utilizing eCCFs, which can save you an average of 25% in time, helps offset this additional turnaround time.
In addition, companies that use traditional paper Custody and Control Forms (CCF) must manually update their forms, and if the old form is incorrectly used, they could face delays or be non-compliant with the DOT's latest regulations. Employers have until June 30, 2018 to use old forms without a “memorandum of the record” being required. Companies that are using the electronic Custody and Control Forms (eCCF) would automatically receive the latest forms updated in their system. This simple, but beneficial example highlights one of the many advantages of using eCCF over traditional paper CCFs.
DISA ensures our clients have an easy and orderly transition to eCCFs, along with access to our customer support team for any questions along the way. There is very little they need to do to begin using the electronic version of the custody and control form. Training employees on how to use the form will be the next step in the process, and to ensure that all collection sites, labs, etc. are conforming to the new process as well.
DISA Global Solutions assists clients in making the most informed decisions possible, to increase workplace safety and mitigate risks. We believe eCCF goes a long way in improving what has been a paper based solution since its inception.
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About DISA Global Solutions
Founded in 1986, DISA is the industry-leading provider of employee screening and compliance services. Headquartered in Houston, with more than 35 offices throughout the U.S. and Canada, DISA’s comprehensive scope of services includes drug and alcohol testing, background check, occupational health, and transportation compliance. DISA assists employers in making informed staffing decisions while building a culture of safety in their workplace.