Specimen Collector Training for Drug Testing

Specimen collector training for drug testing is designed to qualify learners to properly collect biological specimens, such as urine, saliva, or hair samples, for drug and alcohol testing. Collector training focuses on imparting the technical skills required for proper specimen collection and on ensuring that collectors understand and can implement the procedural and legal standards that apply to drug and alcohol testing.

There are several types of drug and alcohol testing available for employers. These include pre-employment testing, which is conducted before an individual begins a job, and random testing, where employees are selected randomly for testing throughout the year, and then there is reasonable suspicion testing, conducted when there are observable signs of possible drug or alcohol use; post-accident testing, done after a workplace accident or incident, and return-to-duty and follow-up testing, performed when an employee is returning to work after a positive test or after completing a rehabilitation program.

For those conducting drug and alcohol tests under the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) regulations as detailed in 49 CFR Part 40, specific training requirements must be met. A collector must complete an initial proficiency training course, which provides an in-depth understanding of the DOT regulations and procedures for urine collection. After the initial training, they must complete five mock collections designed to simulate real-life scenarios and ensure the collector is proficient in conducting a collection procedure accurately and professionally. 

It's important to note that collectors performing drug and alcohol testing for non-DOT employees must follow state drug testing laws, which can vary significantly and may include specific procedural guidelines or additional certification requirements. Whether testing falls under DOT or non-DOT regulations, thorough and consistent training is crucial to ensure that testing procedures uphold the integrity of the testing process and the rights of the individuals being tested.