When an accident happens, the first reaction may be, “Send the employee for a drug test.” But before doing that, employers need to determine what testing authority applies.
Is this a DOT-required post-accident test, or would testing fall under the employer’s own company drug and alcohol policy?
The distinction matters because DOT and non-DOT testing follow different rules.
Not Every Accident Requires a DOT Test
For CDL drivers covered by FMCSA regulations, post-accident testing is required only in certain situations.
A fatal accident requires testing of the covered commercial driver. For accidents involving an injury requiring immediate medical treatment away from the scene or disabling vehicle damage requiring a tow, testing may depend on whether the driver receives a qualifying moving-violation citation.
Timing is also important. When DOT testing is required:
- Alcohol testing should occur as soon as practicable, with attempts ending after 8 hours.
- Drug testing attempts end after 32 hours.
- Employers must document certain situations when required testing cannot be completed within the applicable timeframe.
What If DOT Testing Is Not Required?
An employer may still require testing under its own workplace drug and alcohol policy.
This is considered non-DOT or company-authority testing and must remain separate from the federal DOT testing program.
Alaska employers using workplace drug and alcohol testing should also have a written policy that clearly explains who may be tested, when testing may occur, and the procedures that apply.
DOT and Non-DOT Tests Are Not the Same
An accident involving a commercial driver does not automatically make the drug test a DOT test.
Before sending an employee for collection, employers should determine:
- Does DOT testing apply to this employee?
- Does the accident meet the federal post-accident testing criteria?
- If not, does the company’s written policy authorize post-accident testing?
If both DOT and non-DOT testing are required, they must be handled as separate tests, with the DOT test completed first.
Be Prepared Before an Accident Happens
Post-accident decisions are much easier when supervisors know the company’s procedures before an incident occurs. A clear written policy, trained managers, and an established testing provider can help prevent delays and compliance mistakes.
MedPhysicals Plus provides DOT and non-DOT drug and alcohol testing for Alaska employers, including post-accident testing support.
With locations in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Wasilla, Soldotna, and Juneau, we can help employers establish a reliable process before an accident happens.
Need help with post-accident testing?
Call (907) 561-7587, email admin@medphysicalsplus.com, or visit medphysicalsplus.com.