Question On Random Drug Tests
Topic 20381 | Page 1
I'd say it depends on who you work for and their policies. You could always ask them not to leave a bald spot or ask them to take a sample elsewhere.
Dan
It definitely depends on where you work. On top of that is where you're at in the country, how 'random' the test really is(if it's based on suspicion they may still call it random, but it's certainly not... and is more likely to be a hair test), things like that. Hair tests are also significantly more expensive for the employer to perform so if you're in a company that really goes out of their way to pinch pennies, you're probably less likely to get a hair test.
I am not sure as my company is still doing urine tests. I got the honor of being selected for a random. I pulled into the terminal and was in driver lineup and informed I needed to take a drug test. So i went right then and there with them and took it at the terminal. If you are with a company that is doing hair follicle testing I am sure they may stick to that. If you are concerned about them leaving a bald spot I do know that they can get the sample from other areas of your body if you ask them such as the underarm or chest or other areas if you follow me.
Terminal:
A facility where trucking companies operate out of, or their "home base" if you will. A lot of major companies have multiple terminals around the country which usually consist of the main office building, a drop lot for trailers, and sometimes a repair shop and wash facilities.
"Random tests" - as required by DOT , "should be" urine, as HFT is still not a "DOT Accepted Method" of testing. The typical hair test, is a preemployment drug screen, although most companies do not test urine also as mandated. DOT kind of lets the companies slide on it.
Your typical random, comes a message on the QUALCOMM , because they know exactly where you are, they will give you the address to the nearest testing center, and you must go drop immediately, or it is considered a refusal.
If anyone works for a company, that does hair tests as random, and not "under suspicion" as random, it would be interesting to hear about it.
Rick
Qualcomm:
Omnitracs (a.k.a. Qualcomm) is a satellite-based messaging system with built-in GPS capabilities built by Qualcomm. It has a small computer screen and keyboard and is tied into the truck’s computer. It allows trucking companies to track where the driver is at, monitor the truck, and send and receive messages with the driver – similar to email.DOT:
Department Of Transportation
A department of the federal executive branch responsible for the national highways and for railroad and airline safety. It also manages Amtrak, the national railroad system, and the Coast Guard.
State and Federal DOT Officers are responsible for commercial vehicle enforcement. "The truck police" you could call them.
We have a list of companies and their last known type of drug testing:
Hair Follicle vs. Urinalysis Drug Testing: Breakdown By Company
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Do you just pee in a cup or have to get the hair snipped yet again? Last time they left a bald spot.