PHMSA’s decision stems from a review of 2024 Drug and Alcohol Management Information System (DAMIS) reports, which revealed a random drug testing positive rate greater than 1%.

Under 49 CFR 199.105(c)(4), when industry-wide data shows positive rates at or above the 1% threshold, the Administrator must maintain the minimum annual random drug testing rate at 50% of all covered employees.

The regulatory framework does allow for potential rate reductions. According to 49 CFR 199.105(c)(3), if the reported positive drug test rate falls below 1% for two consecutive calendar years, the Administrator may lower the random drug testing rate to 25%. However, based on the most recent DAMIS submissions, this criterion has not been met.

The 50% random drug testing requirement applies to operators of gas pipeline facilities, hazardous liquid pipeline facilities that transport petroleum products and other regulated materials, carbon dioxide pipeline facilities, liquefied natural gas (LNG) plants, and underground natural gas storage facilities.

Both operators and contractors performing covered functions must ensure they meet this testing threshold throughout 2026. This includes anyone performing operations, maintenance, or emergency response functions on covered pipeline facilities.

All covered employers must maintain compliant drug and alcohol testing programs that achieve the required random testing rate.

Maintaining a 50% random testing rate requires careful planning and execution. Selections must be spread throughout the calendar year, and all covered employees must have an equal chance of selection during each testing period.

For operators managing their own programs, this means tracking your covered employee count, documenting each random selection, ensuring timely test completions, and maintaining records that demonstrate compliance during audits.

Working with an experienced Consortium/Third-Party Administrator (C/TPA) can significantly reduce the administrative burden. A qualified C/TPA handles pool management, random selections, result tracking, and provides the documentation needed for PHMSA audits and DAMIS submissions.

AZC Drug Testing provides comprehensive PHMSA drug and alcohol testing services designed to keep pipeline operators and contractors fully compliant.

Our program includes:

With over 25 years of experience managing DOT compliance programs across all six modes, including FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, and USCG, we understand the nuances of mode-specific requirements and keep our clients audit-ready year-round.