Drug and Alcohol Testing

Drug and Alcohol Testing

October 27, 2021

Spring 2021 brought about the legalization of recreational cannabis for individuals 21 and older in the state of New York. The Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act (the Act) was immediately effective and impacted workplace drug and alcohol testing practices. New York residents ages 21 and older can use, possess, and cultivate cannabis but are not permitted to do so in the workplace. Additionally, employers are broadly prohibited from testing for cannabis unless certain requirements are met and drug tests cannot be the basis for the determination that an individual is impaired.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

October 25, 2021

The pandemic has seen increased drug abuse by corporate employees including up to 4x more abuse of opioids or amphetamines. As 2021 comes to a close and businesses are resuming normal operations, it’s more important than ever to implement a strong drug and alcohol testing policy in the workplace.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

October 01, 2021

Employers who implement a drug and alcohol testing policy are further protecting their company and building a more productive workforce. However, maintaining compliance with state and federal laws while also navigating the complexities of custom drug testing services can be difficult. It’s important to understand exactly how drug testing works to efficiently build a drug testing program that meets the standards necessary to ensure a safe workplace.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

September 01, 2021

On February 22, 2021, Gov. Murphy signed three bills related to cannabis legalization in the state. The laws largely did not impact employers until August 21, when the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) finalized their rules around the sale and use of cannabis. As states continue to create new marijuana laws or make changes to existing ones, it’s vital that employers remain updated. Protecting workplaces against drug abuse and misuse, especially with safety-sensitive positions, is paramount to the success and reputation of a company and the health and safety of its employees.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

August 12, 2021

Patrice Kelly, Director of ODAPC, discussed the importance of adequately documenting drug test refusals during a recent presentation. Often, the collection sites don’t provide an extensive description of the reasoning behind the refusal, leaving Designated Employer Representatives (DERs) with very little information to make an accurate determination. By following DOT guidelines, expert advice, and best practices when documenting refusals, DERs will obtain a more thorough explanation helping to solidify the most accurate determination for a refusal ruling.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

July 22, 2021

In January 2020, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) included oral fluid testing in mandatory guidelines for federal workplace drug testing programs. As employers await any official implementations, small changes such as those to Custody and Control Forms (CCFs) are beginning to make their presence. Currently, lab-based urinalysis testing still remains the only approved testing by the DOT, but a box to check for oral fluid testing has most recently appeared on CCFs.

Drug and Alcohol Testing

June 28, 2021

SB 1201 states that employers with five or more employees can prohibit smoking, electronic nicotine/cannabis delivery systems, and vapor products in any area of a business facility that they control.