Author: csdesign

Questions and Answers About DOT Compliance

Written by csdesign on November 4, 2016. Posted in Drug Testing.

The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) maintains strict drug and alcohol regulations for employees who work in the transportation industry. These regulations are designed to protect employees, passengers, and the general public from accidents and other incidents related to drug and alcohol use, and thus carry significant penalties for companies that fail to comply. Understanding these regulations and requirements can help employers ensure they are following the proper practices regarding drug and alcohol testing.

Is my company subject to DOT testing?

Current regulations regarding DOT drug and alcohol testing require employers and employees who work in safety-sensitive transportation or related positions to follow drug and alcohol testing regulations. The industries affected by DOT testing regulations include aviation, maritime transportation, trucking, commercial buses, railroads, and other forms of public transportation.

Can an employee be fired for refusing or failing a test?

If an employee tests positive or refuses a drug test, he may no longer perform safety-sensitive duties for any DOT employer until several steps have been taken. However, the DOT does not regulate employers’ actions regarding termination for failure of a drug test or refusal to test. These actions are at the employer’s discretion, and should be communicated to employees during the hiring process.

What happens if an employee tests positive?

Employees who test positive for drugs or alcohol may no longer perform their duties if these duties are in a safety-sensitive area as outlined by the DOT. Before he can return to safety-sensitive duties, the employee must work with a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and successfully complete the DOT’s required return-to-duty process. This process includes a second drug or alcohol test, which must return negative results.

Do you have more questions about DOT drug and alcohol compliance and how these regulations affect your company? At Oschmann Employee Screening Services, we specialize in DOT drug and alcohol testing services in Arizona, as well as compliance audits to help your company follow these important regulations. You can find out more about our DOT-related services on the web, or by calling (800) 224-8532.

An Overview of Prescription Drug Abuse

Written by csdesign on October 28, 2016. Posted in Drug Testing.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, prescription drugs are abused more commonly than any other substances besides marijuana and alcohol. Prescription drug abuse is perhaps surprisingly widespread, and can affect people in many different industries. As an employer, it is essential to educate yourself on prescription drug abuse so that you can be mindful of the signs of abuse among your workers. Drug testing in Arizona can reveal prescription drug abuse, which can greatly hinder the safety and productivity of your workforce. Keep reading to find out the basics of prescription drug abuse.

Commonly Abused Drugs

There are three different classes of prescription drugs that are most commonly abused. The first is opioids, also known as painkillers, and includes drugs such as oxycodone, Demerol, Dilaudid, and Vicodin. Opioids can treat pain, and may produce a euphoric feeling when abused. Central nervous system depressants such as Xanax, Valium, and Ativan are prescribed to treat anxiety and sleep disorders, but are often abused. These depressants can produce a calming feeling, but over time, more and more of the medication is needed to produce the same effect. The last category of abused prescription drugs is stimulants such as Adderall or Ritalin, which are used to treat ADD and narcolepsy. These can increase alertness but can have adverse side effects such as irregular heartbeats.

Abuse on the Rise

Prescription drug abuse is growing more and more common, perhaps because of the wider availability of these drugs. Some doctors are quick to write prescriptions for addictive drugs, which can easily be abused even if they start off being used properly. There are also online outlets for obtaining prescription drugs that make it easy for just about anyone to procure them. Medical detox treatment may be necessary depending on the severity of the abuse, as addiction to prescription medications is a serious health risk.

Oschmann Employee Screening Services of Arizona recognizes the risks that prescription drug abuse pose to the safety of your employees and clients. Contact us at (800) 224-8532 to learn about implementing a drug-free workplace policy, and how drug testing can play an important role in it.

The Importance of Keeping Our Skies Safe

Written by csdesign on October 14, 2016. Posted in Drug Free Workplace.

When your business involves transportation, it is essential that you are up to date and compliant with governmental safety regulations. In addition to measures related to rest and equipment safety, a drug and alcohol free workplace is of paramount importance. This is true whether your business is related to driving, boating, or flying. To keep our skies as safe as possible, pilots and other aviation workers must be trained, alert, and not under the influence of any substances, including drugs and alcohol. Drug testing is a regulated part of the Federal Aviation Administration’s safety guidelines, so work with an experienced provider to make sure you are in compliance. Keep reading to learn more about why it’s important to keep our skies safe.

Public Responsibility

Much like car accidents, aviation accidents affect more people than just the drivers or pilots. You must take into consideration any passengers aboard the aircraft, additional personnel on board, and citizens on the ground who might be affected by the aftermath of an accident. If a plane crashes, it can have far-reaching effects, damaging buildings and people on the ground in addition to harming those on board. Operating an aircraft is a major responsibility, and it takes a well-trained team to keep everything safe. Even one worker under the influence of drugs or alcohol failing to do his job thoroughly could pose a serious risk to employees as well as the general public.

Professional Responsibility

In addition to protecting the safety of your employees, customers, and the general public, you should also remember that employee drug testing is for the safety of your business. The FAA has specific guidelines of which employees must be drug tested and when, as well as what happens if someone refuses a drug test or tests positive for drugs or alcohol. By remaining in compliance with the FAA, you can ensure that your business stays operational and safe.

Contact Oschmann Employee Screening Services at (800) 224-8532 to find out what you need to do to keep your business in compliance with FAA drug testing guidelines. We can help you write a drug and alcohol policy for your Arizona business as well as train you and your employees on the importance of substance-free safety.

Reporting Suspicions of Drug Use in the Workplace

Written by csdesign on September 23, 2016. Posted in Drug Free Workplace.

Drug or alcohol use in the workplace is a serious offense that should be addressed immediately. However, if you suspect that an employee or fellow coworker is using drugs while on the job, you will want to approach this situation with caution. Following your company’s drug protocol is essential for making sure that the appropriate action can be taken. Let’s take a look at some important advice for reporting drug use at work.

Document Suspicious Actions

In the event that you suspect a coworker of using drugs in the workplace, you will want to carefully document any suspicious actions. Erratic behavior, inappropriate comments, or failure to meet job responsibilities should all be written down with a date and time. This information will be useful when your report is being filed.

Talk to Human Resources

The human resources department at your company has special training and protocols on how to take actions when a worker is suspected of using drugs. Rather than going straight to your boss or supervisor, you may want to start by talking to a human resources representative. Your HR department will be able to advise you on the appropriate steps for reporting suspected drug use.

Consult With a Drug Testing Company

When you are worried about an employee’s drug use, you can also set up a consultation with a drug testing company that serves your local area. Your drug testing professionals can set up a drug screening date for the suspected employee, as well as other employees in the work place. A drug test that has been confirmed positive will provide you with important evidence for your report.

At Oschmann Employee Screening Services, we proudly offer accurate drug testing to companies throughout Arizona. If you are concerned about drug use in your workplace, do not hesitate to set up a screening with our drug testing technicians. For more information about how we can help you combat drug abuse at your place of work, give us a call at (800) 224-8532.

A Look at Commonly Abused Drugs

Written by csdesign on September 9, 2016. Posted in Drug Testing.

Drug abuse is an epidemic that affects the entire country. If you are worried about a friend or coworker’s drug use, it is important to collect accurate information about addictive drugs and their signs of abuse. When you take the time to learn about the signs and dangers of addictive drugs, you will be better able to spot the signs of addiction. Here is an overview of some of the most commonly abused drugs in the United States.

Marijuana

Marijuana is illegal in the state of Arizona, and this substance can drastically impair users. A person who abuses marijuana may show signs of memory loss, lack of attention, and learning problems. Heavy use of this drug may also lead to addiction and other serious problems, such as psychosis. A urine drug test can reveal traces of THC-A, which is among the many chemical compounds found in marijuana that stays in the body for several weeks after use.

Opioids

Opioids are a class of medications that are commonly prescribed by medical professionals to treat severe pain. Prescription opioid medications, such as OxyContin and morphine, are highly addictive and deadly when taken in high doses. In fact, opioid overdose is the leading cause of drug related deaths. When a person withdraws from opioid addiction, he or she may experience very severe symptoms.

Amphetamines

Unlike marijuana or opioids, which are typically classified as depressants, amphetamines typically cause greater alertness and stimulation for the user. Amphetamines are sometimes abused by workers who are scheduled for overnight or overtime shifts. If a person abuses amphetamines regularly, brain damage can occur. Use of amphetamines can also affect a person’s motor and verbal functions.

At Oschmann Employee Screening, we are here to help you create a drug free workplace. With our drug testing services in Arizona, you can screen current and prospective employees for illegal drug use. Additionally, we also offer supervisor and employee training so that you can continue your drug prevention program. Call us at (800) 224-8532 to receive more information about the drug testing services that we can provide for your business.

Knowing the Signs of Alcohol Abuse

Written by csdesign on August 26, 2016. Posted in Drug Testing.

Drug and alcohol abuse are serious problems in the workplace. While employees may feel that substance abuse at home doesn’t impact their jobs, excessive drinking or drug use can put coworkers, clients, and property at risk. In addition to maintaining a strong drug and alcohol testing program at work, it’s important to know the signs of alcohol abuse to recognize when it’s time to take action on behalf of an affected employee.

Missed or Late Attendance and Work

Employees suffering from an alcohol problem often deviate from their regular work schedule and may skip work or arrive on the job late. Employee absences due to a drinking habit may grow more frequent as the problem worsens. Similarly, these employees may forget or miss important deadlines and meetings, and often suffer from a decline in productivity and overall performance.

Small and Large Accidents

Alcohol impairs both physical and mental performance. An employee with a drinking problem may suffer from various forms of impairment associated with either states of drunkenness or withdrawal symptoms. Furthermore, alcohol can have a long-term effect on the body, causing deterioration in health and coordination. All of these factors can contribute to an increasing number of small or large accidents associated with the affected employee, from dropped or damaged objects to serious injuries in extreme cases.

Changes in Demeanor

An employee suffering from alcohol abuse may grow sullen and withdrawn, particularly when asked about his hobbies, his personal life, or his health. Especially if an employee was once friendly and forthcoming, a change in social habits should indicate cause for concern. Employees who abuse alcohol may also develop workplace difficulties and stop contributing to group discussions and projects.

At Oschmann Employee Screening Services, we can help you develop and implement an effective workplace drug and alcohol testing and prevention program. Our Arizona company has been providing drug testing and training services since 1996; you can find out more about our compliance and testing solutions on our website, or reach us locally by phone at (520) 745-1029 or toll-free at (800) 224-8532.