Drug and Alcohol Testing

Drug and Alcohol Testing

March 18, 2024

The landscape of drug testing and legal regulations has undergone significant evolution, transitioning from the simplicity of past decades to today's complex array of over 500 bills introduced in a single year. This dynamic shift reflects ongoing legal developments, such as the DOT's final regulations on lab-based oral fluid testing and the progressive legalization of marijuana at the state level, which are reshaping options for employers. Understanding the impact of these changes on employer drug testing programs is paramount, with compliance serving as the ultimate legal safeguard against potential challenges. Employers must stay on top of the intricate web of mandatory and voluntary drug testing laws across states, industry-specific regulations, and the nuanced implications of medical and recreational cannabis legalization on workplace policies.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

March 04, 2024

Let’s dive deep into the changing legal landscape surrounding marijuana use and its implications for employers, particularly in terms of drug testing. We’ll also discuss the expansion of medical and recreational marijuana laws across various states, highlighting how these changes impact employment practices. Additionally, we’ll cover the importance of understanding the nuances in each state’s legislation, especially regarding employee protections and exceptions for safety-sensitive positions.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

February 27, 2024

Details on the approval of oral fluid testing by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on June 1, 2023, emphasizing the reliability of oral fluid testing when faced with common challenges like shy bladder, transgender or non-binary individuals, or collector observed testing. Also covered are the necessary preparations for employers, including updating policies, implementing robust training, required testing materials, and other key considerations.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

February 22, 2024

The significance of pre-employment drug screening and random drug testing is well-acknowledged by employers for creating a secure and safe workplace. Yet, when it comes to handling potential impairment due to drugs or alcohol among current employees, the steps for an employer should become more nuanced. Reasonable suspicion drug testing aims to maintain the integrity of a drug-free workplace policy. This strategy is activated upon witnessing behaviors or actions that could indicate substance impairment, thus supporting a safer work environment, reducing accidents, and promoting overall employee well-being.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

February 16, 2024

Maine has strict laws and regulations governing workplace drug testing to ensure a safe and fair working environment for all employees. On November 1, 2023, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services amended its Substance Use Testing For The Workplace Rule, significantly changing drug testing programs and laboratory procedures.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

February 07, 2024

In the world of drug testing and compliance, selecting the right service provider is crucial for ensuring workplace safety and adherence to regulations. While there are several competent options in the market, here are some that stand out for safety-sensitive and enterprise-size companies.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

February 05, 2024

The recent "Day with DISA 2024" session, titled "Clearinghouse & DOT: Updates from the Top" presented by Bryan Price, Chief of Drug & Alcohol Policy and Compliance, and Stacy Johnson, Federal Program Specialist, provided invaluable insights for HR professionals into the latest updates and statistics related to drug and alcohol testing in the motor carrier industry. Led by experts from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the session delved into the Clearinghouse's operational impacts, recent enhancements based on industry feedback, and detailed statistics.