Where do we stand with Saliva testing for DOT drug testing

Businesses in Anchorage, Wasilla, and Fairbanks have been anticipating the implementation of oral fluid drug testing as a more efficient alternative to urine tests. Approved in a senate bill over a year ago, oral fluid drug tests, also known as mouth swab drug tests, provide a faster and non-invasive way to detect recent drug use. However, as of September 2024, challenges such as a lack of approved federal labs and trained testers have slowed the adoption of this method and legally prevented DOT (Department of Transportation) from still using these tests.

Read what we said about this and Alcohol testing in a previous article.

Why Haven’t Oral Fluid Drug Tests Been Fully Implemented?

Despite the advantages, the rollout faces several roadblocks:

  • Lack of Approved Labs: No federal labs are currently approved for processing oral fluid drug tests, leaving companies across Alaska unable to use this method while staying compliant with DOT regulations.
  • Shortage of Trained Testers: Proper sample collection for saliva drug tests requires skilled professionals, a resource that is currently lacking, especially for companies operating in remote areas.

How Our Locations in Anchorage, Wasilla, and Fairbanks Help

While awaiting federal lab approvals, our facilities still offer a range of drug testing services:

  • After-Hours Testing: Immediate compliance with company or DOT policies in the event of accidents, even after regular business hours.
  • Multiple Office Locations: With offices in Anchorage, Wasilla, and Fairbanks, we make it easy for companies to access drug testing services, whether it’s a mouth swab drug test or other methods.
  • Mobile Testing: On-site testing services to minimize disruptions to productivity.
  • Remote Testing: Companies with job sites in Alaska’s remote areas can still have routine drug testing, including saliva drug tests, conducted efficiently.
  • Live Customer Service: Reachable via call, text, or email for support at any time.
  • Experience: With over 10 years of experience, we are prepared to assist Alaska businesses in transitioning to oral drug testing methods as they become viable.

Moving Forward

Though federal approval for oral fluid drug tests for federal use is pending, our locations in Anchorage, Wasilla, and Fairbanks are ready to support companies with their current drug testing needs. We keep a close eye on developments, so as soon as saliva drug tests become fully approved, we can facilitate a smooth transition. Call us at (907) 561-7587 to discuss this further.