DOT Oral Fluid Collector Training

Attorney Andrew Easler, a recognized authority in drug and alcohol testing, is developing this course, which is currently open for pre-registration and set to launch on December 5, 2024.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a final rule amending drug and alcohol testing procedures, effective December 5, 2024. The DOT’s May 2023 rule initially authorized oral fluid drug testing but faced challenges regarding compliance with mock collection monitors, privacy consistency, and collection volume documentation.

To address these, the DOT issued a Direct Final Rule (DFR) on June 21, 2024, but withdrew it on August 1, 2024, due to public comments. This final rule now addresses the concerns raised in the DFR and the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) issued on June 21, 2024.

We invite learners to pre-register for the DOT Oral Fluid Collector Training, which will provide an in-depth understanding of the professionals responsible for collecting oral fluid samples according to DOT standards. Tailored for individuals in the transportation, safety, and drug testing sectors and those seeking their initial qualification certificate, this course also benefits other professionals interacting with DOT regulations and standards.

The course provides essential knowledge and practical skills to ensure compliance with the final rule published by the Department of Transportation (DOT) in the Federal Register (88 FR 27596) on May 2, 2023, which amended the DOT's regulated industry drug testing program to include oral fluid testing.

Upon completion of the course, participants will be well-versed in the history and development of oral fluid testing, including the proposed guidelines by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in 2015, the establishment of scientific guidelines by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in October 2019, and the finalization of the rule by the DOT in May 2023.

Please note that the actual implementation of DOT Oral Fluid Testing is contingent upon the HHS certifying at least two laboratories. Once these laboratories are certified, qualified collectors can begin performing DOT oral fluid testing.

Attorney Andrew Easler, a renowned expert in drug and alcohol testing, presents the DOT Oral Fluid Collector Training. This comprehensive course offers an in-depth understanding of the professionals responsible for collecting oral fluid samples according to Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. Tailored for individuals in the transportation, safety, and drug testing sectors and those seeking their initial qualification certificate, this course is also beneficial for other professionals who interact with DOT regulations and standards.

The training highlights the growing trend of oral fluid testing, known as saliva testing, for its efficiency and accuracy in detecting drug use within 24-48 hours. By acknowledging its advantages, the DOT has recognized oral fluid testing as a reliable method to maintain safety standards in transportation sectors since June 1, 2023.

The course explores the reasons behind the shift from urine testing to oral fluid testing, including its less invasive nature, ease of collection, reduced chances of tampering or adulteration, and immediate detection window. As a result, oral fluid testing is quickly becoming the preferred choice for many employers and regulatory bodies.

The course is designed to be learner-centric, featuring a blend of self-paced, computer-based modules and a live, instructor-guided "mock" collection session via a virtual platform. Please note that as of August 2023, the testing process still requires the certification of two labs by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and only after this happens can qualified collectors begin performing DOT oral fluid testing.

The training consists of three components: basic information, initial qualifications training, and initial proficiency demonstrations (often referred to as mock collection or demonstrations) in accordance with 49 CFR Part 40.35 standards. Upon completion of the course, learners will receive a certificate, enabling them to perform oral fluid collection and drug testing. The training package also includes textbooks, forms, and testing devices conveniently shipped directly to the learner's doorstep for a seamless learning experience.

Upon completion of the DOT Oral Fluid Specimen Collection Training, participants will be able to:

• Understand the significance and purpose of DOT-compliant oral fluid specimen collection in maintaining workplace safety and promoting a drug-free environment.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the Department of Transportation regulations and guidelines on oral fluid drug testing procedures.
• Learn the oral fluid specimen collection techniques, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and minimal discomfort for the test subject.
• Employ best practices for handling and processing oral fluid specimens to preserve integrity and avoid contamination or tampering through chain of custody protocols.
• Recognize and address common issues and challenges during the collection process, such as uncooperative donors, insufficient sample volume, or potential tampering attempts.
• Effectively maintain documentation and chain of custody records in accordance with DOT regulations to ensure legal defensibility of test results.
• Apply proper health and safety protocols during the collection process, including personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to universal precautions.
• Continuously stay informed about updates to DOT regulations and advancements in oral fluid drug testing technology, maintaining professional competency in the field.