DOT Oral Fluid Collector Training

On June 1, 2023, the DOT approved oral fluid testing due to its advantages over traditional urine tests, such as a shorter detection window, reduced tampering potential, greater accuracy, and addressing privacy concerns.

Crafted by attorney Andrew Easler, an authority in drug and alcohol testing, the DOT Oral Fluid Collector Training is tailored for transportation, safety, and drug testing professionals and those overseeing drug testing programs. Offering comprehensive training that exceeds DOT standards.

This 3-4 hour course seamlessly integrates self-paced digital modules with virtual "mock" collections, scenario training, and all initial training supplied and shipped to the learner's doorstep. As an important note, as of August 2023, DOT oral fluid testing awaits laboratory certifications from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Upon completion, learners gain valuable insights, earn a certificate, and can begin performing oral fluid testing.

Developed by attorney Andrew Easler, a leading authority in drug and alcohol testing, the DOT Oral Fluid Collector Training course provides a comprehensive overview for professionals responsible for collecting oral fluid samples by the Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. This training is tailored for individuals in the transportation, safety, and drug testing sectors and learners seeking their initial qualification certificate. It also benefits other professionals who interface with DOT regulations and standards.

Oral fluid testing, commonly called saliva testing, is a method used to detect drugs within a short window after drug use, typically 24-48 hours, and involves analyzing a saliva sample, which can provide real-time insights about drug usage, as opposed to urine tests, which may only show past drug use, and acknowledging its efficiency and accuracy, the Department of Transportation (DOT) on June 1, 2023, has oral fluid testing as a dependable means to uphold safety standards in transportation sectors.

The trend towards oral fluid testing over urine testing is gaining momentum for several reasons because it is less invasive and more comfortable for the individual being tested, and the collection process is more straightforward and can be done under direct supervision, reducing the chances of tampering or adulteration, and oral fluid tests provide a more immediate detection window, making it a preferred choice for many employers and regulatory bodies. With its many advantages and the backing of entities like the DOT, oral fluid testing is poised to surpass urine tests in popularity in the near future.

The course duration is typically 3-4 hours, designed to be learner-centric. It initiates with a self-paced, computer-based module, culminating in a live, instructor-guided "mock" collection session via a virtual platform. It is important to 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). Only when this happens can qualified collectors begin performing DOT oral fluid testing.

The training encompasses three vital components: basic information and initial qualifications training, initial proficiency demonstrations (often referred to as mock collection or demonstrations) adhering to the standards of 49 CFR Part 40.35. Upon course completion, learners will receive a certificate, enabling them to perform oral fluid collection and drug testing. Additionally, the training package provides textbooks, forms, and testing devices, all conveniently shipped directly to the learner's doorstep, ensuring an integrated and smooth learning journey.

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.