Author: John

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Accredited Drug Testing provides DOT reasonable suspicion training for supervisors utilizing an online training course in which upon completion a certification certificate will be issued.

The U.S. Department of Transportation requires that all agencies including FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, PHMSA and USCG require training for DOT regulated employers to have supervisors trained in the signs and symptoms of drug and alcohol use and impairment.

To order the easy to use on-line DOT reasonable suspicion Supervisor Training Course, please register for the course on-line 24/7.

Register Now!

Upon registration for the course, you will be sent a log in and password identification at which time you can access the training course and complete the training requirements.

Listed Below is the DOT Agency Training Requirements:

DOT Agency Training Time

Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMCSA): 60 minutes-on controlled substances (drugs) and 60 minutes on alcohol misuse

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): -60 minutes-on controlled substances (drugs) and 60 minutes on alcohol misuse (In addition, supervisors must receive employee training .  Reasonable recurrent training is also required, typically every 12-18 months)

Federal Railroad Administration (FRA): -A total of 3 hours of training is required for this Agency.  1-hour drug, 1-hour alcohol and 1
hour post-accident determination training

Federal Transit Administration (FTA) 1-hour on controlled substances (drugs) and  1 hour on alcohol indicators of probable alcohol use.

Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) -hour on controlled substances (drugs) and 1 hour on alcohol indicators of probable alcohol use.

United States Coast Guard (USCG) One-hour of training is required on the effects of drugs and alcohol on personal heath, safety, and work environment; and manifestations and behavioral cues that may
indicate drug and alcohol use and abuse.

DOT regulated companies which employ two or more (covered) employees must have supervisors who have completed the DOT Reasonable Suspicion Supervisor Training. Failing to comply with these training requirements can subject the regulated company to fines and other penalties.

For more information regarding specific DOT supervisor training requirements call us today at (800) 221-4291 or send us a message today!

Download DOT Agency Program Facts!

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This is the question that many people ask due to the rise in recreational and medical marijuana. With many states beginning to legalize the drug it has has caused many issues in the workplace for employees and employers. The controversy is that employers have to ask themselves is marijuana use affecting job safety and should it be allowed even with a prescription?

Marijuana Controversy

Christine Clearwater, president of Drug-free Solutions Group, specializes in substance abuse prevention in the workplace. She says marijuana legalization should not lead to more lenient employer drug policies. She also states that, the highly politicized battle over marijuana laws can drown out statistics employers need to be aware of:

  • Car crashes involving marijuana went up 300% between 2010 and 2013, and they continue to rise as more states legalize the drug
  • Marijuana is 10 to 20 times stronger today than it was in the 1960s and ’70s
  • Marijuana is an addictive drug

It is very important for employers to issue a drug policy based on the safety of employees, not based off of legal or ethical concerns. Having a drug policy in tact is a very important business decision, it ensures that the employer will not be held accountable over an employee under the influence in the workplace. Accredited Drug Testing offers Drug Free Work Place policy’s customized the each company and their needs.

Marijuana And Job Safety

The substance THC in marijuana affects many necessary job related skills such as, perception, reaction time, coordination and more. Many people with safe-sensitive positions such as, operating machinery or company vehicles are at a higher risk if under the influence.

According to a study reported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, employees who tested positive for marijuana had 55% more industrial accidents, 85% more injuries and 75% greater absenteeism compared to those who tested negative. Also impacting the workplace:

  • Decreased productivity
  • Increased worker compensation and unemployment compensation claims
  • High turnover
  • Lawsuits

These are the top 4 things that employers don’t want or try to avoid.  About 1/6 employees has a substance abuse problem. This is why a Drug Free Workplace policy is crucial, not only helps the employers but also helps keep the safety of all employees.

Challenges Of Medical Marijuana

Many medical marijuana-using employees have legally challenged their employers due to a positive drug test result, even when they are prescribed for it. Some states such as, Connecticut, Illinois, Maine and Rhode Island, protect employee rights against disciplinary action for medical marijuana use. However, marijuana is still illegal according to federal law, which classifies it as a Schedule I drug with no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Federal law supersedes state law. Important things to know about medical marijuana:

  • The Americans with Disabilities Actalso sides with the employer when it comes to medical marijuana
  • Most states will not pay worker compensation to an employee who was under the influence at the time of an accident
  • Most state health insurance programs will not pay for medical marijuana.

Drug Free Work Place Tips

Marijuana is the most frequently used drug of abuse in the United States and the drug most often detected in workplace drug testing. In 2014, about 6.8 million adults ages 18 to 25 (19.6%) and about 13.5 million adults ages 26 and older (6.6%) used marijuana. A solid workplace drug policy can go a long way to keeping a company drug-free.

  • Issue quarterly random drug tests to employees, that way you ensure the employees are drug-free all year round.
  • Expand the drug testing panel more than just the 5-panel standard. You can even customize your own panel.
  • Offer hair drug test instead of a urine drug test to ensure more accurate results and a further detection period.
  • Lastly, make sure to have a strong policy enact that management can enforce.

The health and safety of employees is dependent on the employer, therefore it is the employers responsibility to provide a Drug Free Work Place Policy. Everything you need listed above can be provided by Accredited Drug Testing. Visited www.accrediteddrugtesting.net for more information or call 800-221-4291.

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Free Test Program

Terms and Conditions

 

Accredited Drug Testing understands that many Federal Government employees have been required to seek other private employment opportunities due to the Federal Government Shutdown. In an effort to assist those Federal Government Employees with the financial hardship incurred, Accredited Drug Testing will provide any Federal Government current employee one drug or alcohol test at no charge when required to “self-pay” by an employer.

The following conditions apply:

  • Employees eligible to receive this free test must be current Federal Government Employees and must scan or fax proof of Federal Government Employment (Pay stub, Federal ID).
  • Drug or alcohol tests may be scheduled for the following purposes: pre-employment, random, post-accident. This program will not apply to reasonable suspicion testing.
  • Tests may be scheduled at available testing centers Nationwide (in-network).
  • Federal Government Employees who have been required to seek full or part-time employment from non-government agencies may utilize the free test provided they have shown proof that they are a Federal Government Employee affected by the Government shutdown and required to self-pay for the test.
  • Free testing only applies to urine and breath alcohol methods. Hair testing will be discounted by 50% of the standard fee, if required. No other discounts are provided for other testing methods or services.
  • All terms and conditions are final, and this program has no cash value and Accredited Drug Testing reserves the right to make all final decisions regarding eligibility. This program and offer will end upon the reopening of the United States Federal Government ( shutdown ends).

To schedule a drug or alcohol test in conjunction with this program, please call 1-800-221-4291.

It is our hope that all Federal Government Employees return to work soon, and this program will assist in some small way.

James A. Greer, CPCT

President/CEO

Accredited Drug Testing, Inc.

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Five Department of Transportation Agencies have identified their random testing rates for 2019. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has not yet released the random testing rates for 2019 for the motor carrier industry. Many of the DOT agencies are increasing their random testing rates for 2019, find out below which agency increased their rates this calendar year. Make sure to stay in compliance within your agency this year and join our consortium today. We will help you manage and process all of your drug tests quickly, efficiently and smoothly.

FAA Federal Railroad Administration

For the 2019 calendar year, the minimum annual random testing rates for covered service employees will continue to be 25% for drugs and 10% for alcohol, while the minimum annual random testing rates for MOW employees will continue to be 50% for drugs and 25% for alcohol.

USCG United States Coast Guard

The U.S Coast Guard has increased the minimum random drug testing rate for 2019 as a result of MIS data for the most recent reporting year indicating that the positive rate is greater than 1%.  For 2019, the set  minimum random drug testing rate is at 50% for drugs and 25% for alcohol.

FTA Federal Transit Administration

Effective January 1st, 2019, the minimum rate of random drug testing will increase from 25% to 50% of covered employees for employers subject to FTA’s drug and alcohol regulation.  This change is due to an increase in the industry’s “positive rate” as reflected in random drug test data for the most recent reporting year.

 FAA Federal Aviation Administration

The FAA has determined that the minimum random drug and alcohol testing percentage rates the 2019 calendar year will remain at 25% for safety-sensitive employees for random drug testing and 10% of safety sensitive employees for random alcohol testing.

PHMSA Pipeline and Hazardous Material Administration

PHMSA has determined that the minimum random drug testing rate for covered employees will remain at 50% during calendar year 2019.

FMCSA Federal Motor Carrier Safety

Although FMCSA has yet to confirm the testing rates for 2019, we expect employers governed by the agency will soon be drug testing more of their staff for years to come. We will update as soon as they  release their testing rates for the 2019 calendar year.

If you have not yet enrolled into a consortium, we have you covered! Make sure to stay in compliance this year, we handle everything you need and make sure you are always covered for all DOT regulations. If you would like to join our consortium today or find out more information, give us a call 800-221-4291 or visit our website at www.accrediteddrugtesting.net.

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DOT Drug and Alcohol Consortium

DOT Drug and Alcohol Consortium

DOT RANDOM DRUG & ALCOHOL 

TESTING PROGRAM

(As required by 49 CFR Part 40)

FOR

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) United States Coast Guard (USCG)
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
Pipeline & Hazardous Material Administration (PHMSA) Federal Transit Administration (FTA)

Accredited Drug Testing Inc (ADT) serves as a consortium / third party administrator (C/TPA) which manages the entire DOT approved Consortium for DOT regulated companies and DOT covered “safety sensitive” employees. The DOT consortium is cost effective and complies with all requirements of DOT 49 CFR Part 40 which mandates that all “safety sensitive” employees be enrolled in a random drug and alcohol testing program.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) has strict regulations requiring regulated companies and independent operators (CDL License Holders) be a member of a DOT drug and alcohol Consortium, failure to comply with these regulations can result in significant fines and other DOT sanctions. 

The Accredited Drug Testing Consortium ensures compliance with the DOT regulations and customer service is our number one priority.  Our DOT specialist are committed to serving our DOT consortium members in need of a pre-employment drug test, random drug test or breath alcohol test.

A DOT drug test is a 5 panel urine test and all DOT drug tests require a Federal Chain of Custody form, this is a special 5 page form which must be used when a DOT drug test is administered.  Accredited Drug Testing provides all members of our DOT consortium a package of Federal Chain of Custody Forms to be used when taking a DOT drug test.

When joining a DOT Consortium, it is important that the Consortium staff be fully knowledgeable of all DOT regulations regarding 49 CFR Part 40 and the DOT random drug and alcohol testing requirements. Accredited Drug Testing Inc prides itself on providing accurate and professional information and services regarding the DOT Consortium.

Accredited Drug Testing Inc is fully versed in the DOT procedures for pre-employment drug testing, random drug testing, reasonable suspicion drug testing, post accident drug testing, return to duty drug testing and follow up drug testing.

When you and your company are enrolled in the Accredited Drug Testing DOT Consortium, your company will receive a Certificate of Compliance (email and U.S Mail) and when any of your drivers or other safety sensitive employees are selected for a random test, the DER (designated employer representative) or you, the independent operator will be sent an email and a phone call will be made to ensure that you and your employee are aware of the selection, provided the closest testing center location and any assistance needed to ensure compliance with the DOT random drug or alcohol test process.

Please Note- If you are currently being audited/inspected or found to be in violation by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and you are calling to join the DOT Consortium or schedule a  DOT drug or breath alcohol test, please advise the Accredited Drug Testing DOT Specialist. 

Accredited Drug Testing, DOT Consortium – Easy, Cost Effective with Immediate Compliance!

For immediate compliance with the DOT Consortium enrollment requirement or to schedule a DOT drug or alcohol test call Accredited Drug Testing at (800)221-4291.

Accredited Drug Testing Inc has a special DOT Compliance Package for independent operators (CDL License holders) and other DOT regulated companies.

Complete DOT Compliance Package – Independent Operators/Small Companies Includes:

  • Pre-employment or Random drug test,
  • Consortium Membership (First Year)
  • Supervisor Training
  • DOT Drug & Alcohol Policy
  • Certificate of Compliance

Additional DOT Drug tests may be ordered at a discount when purchasing the complete compliance package.

Call Accredited Drug Testing for additional information and fees (800)221-4291.

To Review DOT 49 CFR Part 40 Regulations- CLICK HERE

Who’s Covered?

  • Truck Drivers- CDL Operators
  • Train Engineers
  • Boat Captains- Officers
  • Airplane Mechanics
  • Airline Pilots- Flight Attendants
  • Pipeline Workers

Additional companies/operators subject to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing

  • If you or your company operate vehicles with a gross weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds
  • If you or your company operate vehicles which can transport 16 or more passengers. (including the driver)
  • If you or your company operate vehicles which transport hazardous materials.

DOT Random Drug & Alcohol Testing

The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that all covered employees be enrolled in a DOT approved Random Consortium Selection Program. The selection of any covered employee must be made by a computerized selection process and any covered employee selected for a drug and alcohol test must immediately proceed to take the test once notified.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) determines the percentages that each consortium must select for a drug & alcohol test. As an example the FMCSA Consortium must select 25% of its members for a drug test annually and 10% for an alcohol test.

The Accredited Drug Testing Inc DOT random drug testing program notifies covered employees by email and a phone call and provides the location of the closest testing center for the covered employee to go and take their drug and alcohol test.

Failing to take a random drug or alcohol test once selected can result in substantial fines and penalties by the Department of Transportation (DOT).

Accredited Drug Testing Inc provides a DOT approved random selection Consortium for covered employees who are required to comply with DOT random testing requirements.

Random Testing Requirements For Each Federal Agency DOT Consortium 

  • FMCSA – Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – 25% drug and 10% alcohol
  • FAA – Federal Aviation Administration – 25% drug and 10% alcohol
  • FRA – Federal Railroad Administration – 25% drug and 10% alcohol
    • MOW (Maintenance of Way) – 50% drug and 25% alcohol
  • FTA – Federal Transit Administration – 50% drug and 10% alcohol
  • PHMSA – Pipeline and Hazardous Materials – 50% drug
  • USCG – United States Coast Guard – 50% drug

DOT Consortium Employee List Revisions

Quarterly each consortium member will be contacted by the Accredited Drug Testing, DOT specialist and asked to update the company’s  DOT Consortium employee list, prior to the random selection draw (add or remove  employees from the consortium). Companies can remove or add employees to the consortium at anytime prior to the selection date. Maintaining an accurate consortium list is an important service provided by Accredited Drug Testing Inc and requires the cooperation of all Consortium Members.

DOT Post Accident Drug & Alcohol Testing 

The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that any covered employee immediately proceed to take a drug and breath alcohol test in the event of an accident which falls under the DOT post accident drug and alcohol testing requirements.

When possible the covered employee can contact Accredited Drug Testing Inc and the drug and alcohol test can be conducted at a testing center close to where the accident occurred, however on many occasions a post accident drug and alcohol test will require an on-site/mobile drug testing service which can be provided by Accredited Drug Testing Inc.

DOT Reasonable Suspicion Supervisor Training

The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that all DOT regulated companies educate and train all supervisors in how to detect employees under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol.

Supervisors must complete and successfully pass a DOT approved supervisor training course.

Accredited Drug Testing Inc provides a DOT approved Supervisor Training Course which is web based and which will provide a Certificate of Completion at the conclusion of the course. The course is approximately 3 hours in length and maybe accessed at anytime.

DOT Drug & Alcohol Policy

The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that any regulated company with two or more employees holding safety sensitive positions covered by 49 CFR Part 40 must have a written DOT Drug & Alcohol Policy and all employees must be provided a copy of the policy. Companies must comply with all requirements listed in the DOT drug and alcohol policy.

Accredited Drug Testing Inc specializes in the development and implementation of a DOT Drug & Alcohol Policy – Call Accredited Drug Testing at(800)221-4291

DOT Additional Requirements/Information

The Department of Transportation only recognizes and authorizes a 5 panel urine drug test and a breath alcohol test for compliance with 49 CFR Part 40.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that a Federal Chain of Custody Form (5 Page CCF) be used with all drug screens and that all breath alcohol testing devices be approved by the DOT.

The staff of Accredited Drug Testing Inc are certified and trained in DOT drug specimen collections and DOT breath alcohol testing.

DOT Audits/Inspections

The Department of Transportation (DOT) regularly conducts DOT Audits to ensure compliance with 49 CFR Part 40. These audits can occur due to being recently issued a DOT License (New Entrant) or complaints have been filed against the company or a follow up audit due to previous violations.

When a DOT audit/inspection occurs the following primary factors are considered,

  • Pre-employment drug tests on all covered employees on file
  • Random Pool Membership on all covered employees
  • Reasonable Suspicion/Supervisor Training Completed
  • Written drug and alcohol policy
  • Copy of DOT regulations on file
  • All DOT Licenses are current

DOT Physicals

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires that all drivers holding a CDL License must successfully pass a DOT physical to be issued a CDL Medical Card. The Medical Card is valid for 24months and must be renewed every 2  years with a new physical.

Accredited Drug Testing Inc provides DOT physicals nationwide at most drug testing centers and our affiliated medical facilities. All DOT Physicals are administered by an examiner trained and certified by the FMCSA.

Accredited Drug Testing Inc is your “one stop shopping” for all DOT Drug Testing and DOT Breath Alcohol Testing.

To join the DOT Consortium or schedule your DOT Drug Test or DOT Alcohol Test Call, (800)221-4291

Specializing in DOT drug and alcohol Consortium regulations.

“When You Need A Test, Choose The Best!”

Accredited Drug Testing

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Which One is Better For You?

Urine Drug Testing

There are many pros and cons of urine drug testing, however urine drug tests are by far the most common test that dates back to 1966 invented by Germen biochemist Manfred Donike. Urine drug tests are one of the least inexpensive drug tests and you are able to get your results back quickly usually between 3-5 business days. This test is noninvasive and can detect for a variety of different substances.

Some of the most common use of a urine drug test today is for pre-employment, reasonable suspicion, post accident and many more. As mentioned, different substances can be detected in urine and at different times. Here is a guide of some of the substances and detection times urine can discover: (This is a guide only)

  • Alcohol: 3-5 days in urine
  • Amphetamines: 1-3 days in urine
  • Barbiturates: 2-4 days in urine
  • Benzodiazepines: 3-6 weeks in urine
  • Cannabis: 7-30 days in urine
  • Cocaine: 3-4 days in urine
  • Codeine: 1 day in urine
  • Heroin: 3-4 days in urine
  • LSD: 1-3 days in urine
  • MDMA (ecstasy): 3-4 days in urine
  • Methamphetamine (crystal meth): 3-6 days in urine
  • Methadone: 3-4 days in urine
  • Morphine: 2-3 days in urine

Despite the pros of urine tests there are some cons. To begin with, urine tests can be easier to alter the results and, in some ways, cheat the test. For example, certain substances can only be detected between 1-5 days, it is feasible to be able to “flush” out the substance(s) from your system.

However, an over consumption of water to flush out the toxins in your body can cause a “Diluted” result on your test that will show up. Along with other ways individuals might try to skew urine test results, some may administer monitored urine tests and randomized tests to obtain the most effective results.

Hair Follicle Test

A hair follicle test or more commonly known as a “Hair drug test” also has some pros and cons. One of the primary advantages of a hair test is that substance(s) can be detected on a larger time scale going back as far as 90 days. This is because the chemical in the drugs gets into the blood stream becoming part of the hair cells as your hair grows. Another advantage of a hair test is that it illuminates essentially all possibilities to cheat. Hair tests are slightly more costly than urine tests, however the results can’t be altered or can’t be “flushed” out of your system. Many people prefer a hair test because the accuracy compared to a urine test is substantially higher.

Although, hair tests have many pros there are a few disadvantages. Hair tests can take up to 7-10 business days to get the results back. Also, in order to do a hair test you must have at least 1.5-inch of hair to be cut off in person and sent to the lab. Due to the rate of hair growth, drugs won’t be able to be detected until 5-7 days after use. The hair follicle is taken from the root of the scalp and a 1.5-inch follicle can date back up to 3 months. Over all a hair test can offer a cheat-proof alternative to a urine test to get the most effective results.

Which test is better for you?

Always keep in mind that all non-negative tests that are sent to the lab go under further review and confirmation tests are done before given a confirmed result. The end result is given by the MRO (Medical Review Officer) who evaluates drug test results and confirms what the final result is. If you are looking for a faster result and want to detect drugs in a short time period, a urine test might be better for you. However, always keep in mind of all the possibilities someone can alter the results in a urine test. If you are looking for more accurate results that can detect drugs dating back months at a time and are able to provide a hair sample of 1.5-inch, a hair follicle test is better for you.

If you need a urine test or hair follicle test for any reason occupation, personal, medical or legal, we can provide that for you nationwide! If you want more information or would like to schedule a Urine test click here or if you would like more information or would like to schedule on a Hair Drug Test click here.

For more information on drug tests, results or would like to order a test over the phone give me a call today at (800) 221-4291 or email us at  info@accrediteddrugtesting.net.

“Need a test, choose the best”

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A Message From Our President

With the fall leaves changing and colder weather arriving, Accredited Drug Testing and our affiliated companies, Health Screenings USA, American Drug Testing and our newest acquisition Coastal Drug Testing, are appreciative for the tremendous growth we have experienced due to the hard work and dedication of our staff, but most importantly our clients and customers who have chosen us to serve their drug and alcohol testing needs.
As 2018 comes to a close, we are excited about our continued expansion and additional services coming in the new year including, clinical testing, live classroom training, webinars and continuing to meet the needs of small, medium and large employers Nationwide.
In addition, Accredited Drug Testing is pleased to support the National Drug and Alcohol Screening Association (NDASA), a new and very much needed Association representing the Nation’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Industry. I am honored to have been appointed Chairman of the Association’s Governmental Affairs Committee and serve as an industry advisor to the Board of Directors. I encourage all industry partners to join this new and exciting Association.
There is a lot happening in the Nation’s drug testing industry including the opioid epidemic, new DOT testing rates, employer rights, marijuana related legislation and other issues that can affect business owners and testing providers throughout the Nation. Accredited Drug Testing, as always will keep our clients apprised of these important issues.

 

Happy Fall,

 

 

President/CEO

Click here to view our fall Newsletter in its entirety.

 

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Important DOT Notice!

The new DOT drug testing Custody and Control Form (CCF) is required to be used as of June 30, 2017.  It is important to note that utilizing the “old” CCF form will cause a significant delay in the issuance of your drug testing results.  Click here for the official DOT notice regarding this rule change which took effect on January 1, 2018.

What are the differences between the “new” revised CCF or the “old” CCF?

Since 2010, the old CCF has been in effect and is the current CCF used for all DOT regulated drug testing.

Below you will find some helpful changes/updates to the revised (new) CCF required as of June 30, 2018.

  • Step 1D-Removal of the DOT Check Box and hash line before the test “Specify DOT Agency”
  • Step 5A-  the new form now includes the 4 new analytes: (see picture below)
    • Oxycodone (OXY)
    • Oxymorphone (OXYM)
    • Hydrocodone (HYC) and
    • Hydromorphone (HYM)
  • The new rule has also removed the methylenedioxyethylamphetamine (MDEA) analyte.

Click here for the full version of the “New” Federal CCF

         If you need more information on the new CCF effective June 30, 2018 or to enroll in a random drug and alcohol testing program call us today 800-221-4291

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Before understanding what makes a paternity test a legal version, we must discover what DNA Paternity Testing is. DNA testing for paternity helps determines the biological father of a child and is 99.9% accurate.

Each and every person inherits our DNA from our biological parents. 50% of our DNA comes from our Mother and 50% from our Father. Paternity DNA tests compares a child’s DNA pattern with that of the assumed father to determine if there is a match. It is important to remember that when you a requesting any DNA test to be performed, you research and utilize an experienced, accredited laboratory, which will provide the most definitive proof of a biological relationship.

When Should I Use A Legal DNA?

We recommend that individuals choose a legal DNA test when results are needed specifically for a court or legal related issues.

Common reason for a legal DNA Test can include:

  • Paternity Disputes,
  • Modifications to a Birth Certificate
  • Child Support
  • Child Custody
  • Adoption
  • Wills/Insurance
  • Immigration

Legal DNA testing requires specific chain of custody procedures to ensure that the results may be utilized in a legal proceeding.

Some examples include:

  • Legal Name
  • Date Of Birth
  • SS number (last 4)
  • Government Issued Photo ID**
  • Signed Chain of Custody Form (donors and collector)
  • Collector Statement
  • Collection Facility Information
  • Collection Process

Certified collectors complete all paperwork and ID Procedures at time of collection. All patients must be positively identified, and a Client Identification and Consent Form must be completed for each patient.

** For individuals under 18 years of age, a photograph (taken at close distance) is required. This may be taken either at the time of collection or provided by the individual or guardian as a recent photo suitable for identification. We also recommend that the birth certificate and/or social security card is provided as additional supporting information.

**Special Note: Collectors should take a Thumbprint (Child Support Collections Only)

Once your specimen has been properly collected following all chain of custody procedures, your DNA samples will be sent securely in tamper-proof packaging to our accredited laboratory in Fairfield, Ohio where the DNA testing begins.

The laboratory technicians will carefully handle and prepare your DNA samples for processing. Each and every paternity test utilizing a cheek swab is processed two separate times in the lab and the results are meticulously checked by our scientists.

What is a NON-Legal DNA Test

This method is best suited if you need accredited paternity answers fast, but do not require the results for legal reasons such as child support or custody. We offer out clients the option to order an at-home DNA paternity test kit from Accredited Drug Testing.

Our customer service team will ship the complete kit to you with collection instructions, then you may collect your DNA in the comfort of your own home with a simple cheek swab, and mail it directly to our CLIA-certified laboratory for processing.

Special Note: Home DNA testing is not regulated like Legal testing. Many online companies appear legitimate but farm out their tests to unregulated labs or ship your DNA samples out of the U.S. for cheaper processing. Be careful because cheap testing often means cheap testing methods—don’t take a chance on your life-changing paternity test.

 

Step 1: Call Accredited Drug Testing to Get Started, or Order Online.

We will explain the entire process, and make sure you get the RIGHT test for your personal situation.  Accredited Drug Testing will ship the DNA collection kit right to your door.

Step 2: Collect your DNA

It’s easy to collect a DNA sample with a simple cheek swab. Use the prepaid envelope included in your kit to submit your DNA or send it via first-class USPS or courier service.

Step 3: Receive Results Online

All specimens are processed two times to ensure accurate results. No other DNA testing laboratory takes this extra step for every paternity test. Once your results are released, Accredited Drug Testing will securely email your results electronically.

Fast, Convenient and Accurate answers in 3 easy steps.
Call us today at 800-221-4291.

Schedule Drug, Alcohol, DNA Tests

We take the stress out of stressful situations!

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Drug Free Workplace

10 Reasons to Implement a Drug-Free Workplace Policy

Many employers, clients and individuals often ask us “what are the benefits of a drug free workplace?”

Often times employers are hesitant on implementing a Drug Free Workplace Program because they believe that if an employee tests positive the employee, must be terminated.  This may not be the case, consequences for a positive test result must reflect the companies Drug Free Workplace Policy.  One option is termination; however, employers may offer a second chance provision rather than termination if it is specified in their Drug Free Workplace Policy.

Why should I implement a Drug Free Workplace Program?

Employers often as what are the benefits of a drug free workplace program.  Below are the top 10 reasons or steps to implement a drug free workplace policy.

1. Create a written drug free workplace policy

Create and implement a written drug free workplace policy.  To create a drug-free policy at work, a business has several options. All policies should be in writing, effectively communicated and documented that is was delivered to all employees.

2.  Reduce Workplace Injuries

Implementing a drug free workplace will assist you in creating and maintaining clear rules and consequences of using drugs or alcohol during work.  This would help create a safe environment which would help reduce drug or alcohol related accidents and/or liability issues.

3.  Increase Productivity

Typical side effects of drug or alcohol use include absenteeism, tardiness or lack of productivity.  Furthermore, employees who use drugs are more likely to job hop three or more times in a year than non-users. Help prevent these behaviors by instituting a drug-free workplace policy, setting the company standard and holding workers accountable.

4.  Promote A Safe & Healthy Work Environment

By implementing a drug-free workplace program, employers will demonstrate a commitment to having a safe, healthy work environment.

5.  Lower Workers’ Compensation Claims

Studies have shown that drug users cost employers twice as much in workers’ compensation claims and medical expenses as non-users. By reducing drug use among employees, you can help lower workers’ compensation claims and save money.

6.  Lower Workers’ Compensation Premiums

Many states have instituted Laws that provide a discount on workman’s’ compensation premiums to encourage businesses to implement drug-free workplace programs.  States with such laws include Florida, Georgia, Texas, Virginia, and Washington.  Employers in these States have the ability to receive anywhere from 5% and in some cases as much as 10% credit if they qualify as a State Drug-Free Workplace Program under the statute.

7.  Employee Education

A proper drug-free workplace program should contain an educational component that notifies employees on the health and safety risks drug use imposes.  This education should be ongoing and documented.

8.  Demonstrate To Your Employees Your Vested In Them

A drug-free workplace program demonstrates to employees that you have a vested interest in their health and safety. By providing helpful resources, such as education, training, confidential hotline numbers or names of treatment centers, you demonstrate your commitment to seeing your employees get help and improve their quality of life.

9.  Overall Cost Savings Improve The Bottom Line

Benefits from implementing a drug-free workplace program include lower absenteeism, increased productivity, reduced workers’ compensation filings, and fewer accidents. Additional savings include improved employee morale, creativity and emotional stability.

10.  Potential for Federal Government Contracts

If your business wants to be eligible to qualify for a Government contract, you must have a drug-free policy in place. Under the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1998, companies seeking contracts with the government must maintain a drug-free workplace. Additionally, the Department of Transportation requires anyone working in a “Safety Sensitive” position be actively enrolled in a random testing program and in many cases have a drug-free workplace policy

For more information on the benefits of implementing a Drug Free Workplace, call us today! (800)-221-4291 or click here to submit your request.

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