Category: Health News

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Methamphetamine Drug Use On The Rise

Nov 8 2016

Methamphetamine Drug Use On The Rise

Billings Montana – Methamphetamines (Meth) has overtaken marijuana as the most common drug found in addition to alcohol in DUI samples sent to the state crime lab this past year.

Meth has also been detected more frequently in other types cases handled by Crime lab’s toxicology division, per a summary report from the Montana Department of Justice’s Forensic Science Division.

“I think that’s the real take-home of this summary, is the massive increase in methamphetamine,” said Scott Larson, toxicology supervisor at the crime lab.

Even after the spike in Methamphetamine positive results, alcohol remains the most frequent substance found in DUI toxicology cases.

For example, in 2015, alcohol was the only substance detected in 2,277 out of 3,380 total DUI cases tested calendar year.

The lab had 294 DUI cases involving meth, and the drug concentration of the samples screened increased 123 percent. These numbers are up from 2011, when state toxicologists administered 73 DUI samples that tested positive for meth.

These results illustrate that Marijuana used to be the most common substance after alcohol discovered in DUI blood tests. However, in 2015, meth became more prevalent in DUI blood tests, as per the lab.

The toxicology division of the state crime lab in Missoula also performs postmortem drug screens for medical examiners and examines drug and alcohol test results for cases that involve drug-endangered children. The lab also examines urine tests for the Department of Corrections on inmates and individuals on probation.

The lab analyses specimens for a variety of different drugs — such as marijuana, prescription narcotics, hallucinogens and inhalants. Over the years the overall number of positive drug findings has decreased.

DUIs continue to make up the largest caseload which account for more over half of the 6,139 cases handled in 2015. In most DUI test results, alcohol is the only substance present in the blood sample.

However, meth has increased in other test areas. One area includes postmortem drug screens, in 2011 the lab had 20 confirmed positive cases for meth but the rate has increased to 73 positive cases out of a total 801 cases in 2015.

The study also showed that Urine tests conducted on probationers and parolees have seen a dramatic spike in positive results in regards to meth.

For example, there were 1,192 urinalysis cases handled by the lab in 2015 and more than 550 turned up positive for meth. In 2011 there were fewer than 200 confirmed cases and no other drug has spiked so rapidly.

Amphetamines are classified as a stimulant and an appetite suppressant that targets the central nervous system by increasing the release of certain chemicals (“neurotransmitters”) in the brain.

Amphetamines are a Schedule II drug that can be prescribed for the treatment of narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Physical symptoms may include restlessness, tremors, rapid breathing, confusion, panic and seizures. Due to its high risk for potential for abuse and addiction, physicians prefer using other treatment methods. Common trade names of amphetamine-containing drugs are Adderall®, Dexedrine® and Vyvanse®.
Methamphetamine, often referred to as meth, crystal, crank and ice, is an extremely addictive stimulant drug. Meth can be taken orally, smoked, snorted, or dissolved in water or alcohol and injected.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, even small amounts of methamphetamine can cause increased physical activity, decreased appetite, increased respiration, rapid heart rate, irregular heartbeat and increased blood pressure.

Methamphetamine is also available by prescription for limited medical uses (treatment of obesity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) under the trade name of Desoyxn®.

See Article


For information regarding the effects of drug abuse – Click Here
For  information on a drug free work place – Click Here
For  information on substance abuse programs – Click Here
For information on DOT Drug / Alcohol Testing requirements – Click Here
 

John Burgos, CPC
Business Development Manager
https://accrediteddrugtesting.net
(800) 221-4291
Accredited Drug Testing Inc
Health Screening USA Inc

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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.

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What to expect when expecting-the effects of alcohol and drug abuse?

Using drugs or drinking alcohol any time in life but especially while pregnant can create several health issues for both the mother and unborn child.

Some examples are an increased risk of stillbirth and miscarriage which are just two of the harsher examples of the potential complications faced by pregnant women that may be already struggling with substance abuse.

Regardless of the negative consequences and all the research to substantiate theses harsh facts, many continue to use these harmful substances regardless. Here are some astonishing numbers to illustrate the ongoing issue:

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) from 2012-2013, approximately 10% of pregnant women in the U.S. reported drinking alcohol and, though much of it is done to manage other health conditions, it’s increasingly more common for women to continue using medications while carrying a child.

What are Side Effects of Taking Drugs While Pregnant

Alcohol

No matter how small the amount of alcohol consumed during pregnancy can cause a negative impact on the mother and unborn child.  According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism any amount of drinking is considered at risk alcohol use throughout pregnancy.

The consumption of alcohol may:

  • Increase your risk of miscarriage and
  • may result in several development issues in your child like fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) or
  • Alcohol related birth defects

It is important that society understands that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, however, many pregnant women continue to consume at least some amount alcohol with the belief that a small number of drinks will be safe. This is not the case, in fact, half a million children are exposed to alcohol in utero each year.1

Cigarettes

Cigarettes contain harmful chemicals that can damage the health of the smoker and damage the brain of a developing fetus.  The chemicals can limit the amount of oxygen being received by the fetus and the impact of nicotine on a developing baby is greater than the impact on the mother. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, nicotine concentration is up to 15% higher in the baby’s blood than the mother’s.5

Exposing your unborn child to the tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke can also result in many health issues after birth, including:

  • respiratory issues,
  • cerebral palsy,
  • problems with eyesight and
  • possible issues with hearing.

Cocaine

The use of cocaine at any time is harmful but imagine the impact you are having on your unborn child.  Women that use or abuse cocaine oftentimes have poor nutrition and inadequate prenatal care. Oftentimes, cocaine users tend to use the drug in combination with other substances such as alcohol, which makes it more difficult to determine precisely which substance is responsible for the harmful effects on the fetus.5

Heroin

Using heroin while pregnant, will increase the chance of bleeding, especially during your third trimester, as well as preeclampsia (severe high blood pressure).1 This will also place your unborn child at risk for premature birth, dangerously low birth weight, and possibly death. Illicit drug use of any kind, specially heroin will also significantly increase your baby’s risk of developing neonatal abstinence syndrome shortly after birth as well as sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), commonly referred to as crib death.

Marijuana

Marijuana can be harmful and should be avoided when trying to conceive, during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding.1,5 Although there is limited data on how marijuana can affect a developing fetus, several studies indicate that using marijuana may be associated with impaired fetal development, rare forms of cancer, premature birth, and low body weight at birth.

MDMA (Ecstasy)

Research has shown that  fetal MDMA exposure during the first trimester may lead to long-term memory problems and impaired learning along with movement and coordination problems in the child.5 There have also been cases where babies exposed to MDMA while in utero developed cardiovascular anomalies and musculoskeletal problems.

Methamphetamines (Meth)

If a fetus is exposed to meth, this can results in long term health issues which may include, increased depression, anxiety, and social isolation have been reported in children exposed to meth in the womb.5 Some studies also suggest that meth use during pregnancy may be associated with congenital abnormalities, such as gastroschisis—a structural defect that can result in a baby being born with their intestines outside of the abdominal wall.

Painkillers

Expectant mothers should be cautious when taking these medication during pregnancy, even if these medications were prescribed by your physician. Opioids are commonly  refereed to as painkillers can be harmful to your developing fetus. A fetus exposed to Opioid painkillers may be linked to excessive fluid in your baby’s brain, abdominal wall defects, glaucoma, and congenital heart defects.

Since many painkillers are chemically similar to heroin, the mother and child can experience many of the same risks. Children may be born with NAS, experiencing painful withdrawal symptoms after birth

For more information call us today at (800)-224-4291 or to click the blue button below schedule a Drug or Alcohol Test Today!

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References:

  1. Forray, A. (2016). Substance use during pregnancy. F1000Research, 5(F1000 Faculty Rev), 887.
  2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014). Results from the 2013 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Summary of National Findings.
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2015). Medications and Pregnancy: Treating for Two.
  4. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2013). Tobacco, Alcohol, Drugs, and Pregnancy.
  5. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2016). Substance Use in Women.
  6. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2012). Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide.
  7. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2016). DrugFacts: Treatment Approaches for Drug Addiction.
  8. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2015). Detoxification and Substance Abuse Treatment.

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Medical and recreational use of marijuana has become a growing trend in America. It is an extremely hot topic and has become the center of many biased discussions among US politicians.

Where is Marijuana Legal?

The use, possession, trade, cultivation, and transportation of marijuana is still illegal under federal law in the United States. Because of this, some states are have implemented their own regulations with regards to marijuana use.

 

States with legal recreational marijuana: 

1. Alaska

2. California

3. Colorado

4. Oregon

5.Massachusets

6. Nevada

7. Washington

States with medical marijuana: 

1. Alaska 2. Arizona 3. Arkansas
4. California 5. Colorado 6. Connecticut
7. Delaware 8. Florida 9. Hawaii
10. Illinois 11. Maine 12. Maryland
13. Massachusetts 14. Michigan 15. Minnesota
16. Montana 17. Nevada 18. New Hampshire
19. New Jersey 20. New Mexico 21. New York
22. North Dakota 23. Oregon 24. Pennsylvania
25. Rhode Island 26. Vermont 27. Washington

 

Cannabis is categorized under Schedule 1 substance under the Controlled Substance Act of 1970. It is because of this reason that cannabis remains illegal at the federal level.

Marijuana in the workplace

Image result for Marijuana in the workplace

While some point out advantages of marijuana use and its effectiveness treating medical issues, others point out the high-risk effects marijuana may have. Some proven effects of medical marijuana in the workplace include

1.Loss of productivity
2.Absenteeism
3.Increased risks of workplace injuries and accidents.

Loss of Productivity

Scientists have confirmed cannabis really does make people lose motivation. Research has confirmed long-term use of the drug affects the dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine, also known as the “happy” “feel-good” chemical of the brain is what inspires a person to get up and go. Levels of dopamine in a part of the brain called the striatum – found towards the side of the brain and involved in motivation – were lower in regular cannabis users. A recent study has suggested that individuals who have participated in long-term marijuana usage became more withdrawn, lethargic, and apathetic.

Absenteeism

Cannabis contains at least 60 types of cannabinoids, chemical compounds that act on receptors throughout our brain. THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol, is the chemical responsible for most of marijuanas effects, including the euphoric high. THC resembles another cannabinoid naturally produced in our brains, anandamide, which regulates our mood, sleep, memory, and appetite.

Injuries and Accidents

Marijuana impairs attentiveness, motor coordination, and reaction time. It also impacts the perception of time and speed. A study from the National Institute on Drug Abuse has found that marijuana negatively impacts driving performance, and other researchers have found that acute use of the drug increases the risk of crashes and fatal collisions. The drug has also been known to alter decision making, creating a disillusion of one’s morality, and knowing right from wrong.

Whats Next?

The legality of medical marijuana in the workplace continues to be an endless debate. Although the medical, or recreational use of marijuana is legal- most workplaces are still upholding their Drug-Free Workplace Policies. The most common reason for this being the safety aspect of allowing the use of marijuana among employees, knowing the potential risks.Policy makers are developing new regulations to uphold company values while new state laws are put into effect.

If you are interested in becoming a Drug-Free Workplace or need help writing a Company Substance Abuse Policy, visit us at www.accrediteddrugtesting.net.

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Accredited Drug Testing would like to thank Kim Wheaton and Rebbeca Desir of The American Lung Association for coming and sharing their knowledge with the Accredited Drug Testing Team.

The American Lung Association was founded in 1904.

american lung

For the past 110 years, The American Lung Association has been providing resources for those affected by numerous health issues, including lung disease, asthma, and many more. They also strive to create a healthier environment, sharing their knowledge of air pollution to prevent the spread of lung associated illnesses. Their mission statement is “american lungTo save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease.” and their vision is to create “A world free of lung disease”.

Lung Cancer is the number one cancer killer in America.

Accredited Drug Testing believes in the change of America. That what one person can not complete alone, we can do together.

Accredited Drug Testing own workplace wellness program focuses on Drug-Free Workplace. How becoming a Drug-Free Workplace can benefit the Employer and Employee. This has become a very popular program for businesses big and small. Most states provide a mandatory 5% discount on workers insurance. That is only one of the benefits becoming a Drug-Free Workplace can do.

Today, knowledge is power.

By teaching each other about our industries, and working with one another to create a change, is the foundation America was founded on. The visions of each company, The American Lung Association hoping to see a world without lung cancer, Accredited drug testing preventing substance abuse in the workplace are not just visions- but goals that will benefit America in numerous ways.

Accredited Drug Testing would like to recognize the efforts of The American Lung Association, in all that they do to make America a better place. President James A. Greer would like to commend their drive and motivation towards their company vision.

If you are a company that is interested in becoming a Drug-Free Workplace, visit our site at www.accrediteddrugtesting.net, or call (800)221-4291.

 

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On August 10th 2017, President Donald Trump declared a state of emergency in the United States, known as the Opioid Epidemic.

More and more people are becoming aware of this rapidly growing issue that imposes a huge threat on American citizens.

Opioids are a class of drugs that include licit prescription pain relievers oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, fentanyl and others, as well as the illicit drug heroin. 

Opioid

 

About 1.9 million Americans (0.8 percent) reported full-fledged opioid addiction*

What does this mean for you?

 Opioid Epidemic Affect On Employers

  • The use of opioids or prescription painkillers can result in drowsiness, inattentive behavior, dizziness, cloudiness, lack of motivation, and more. To ensure the safety of your staff, and others around them you should enroll yourself, and supervisors in reasonable suspicion drug training. This is a two-hour online course that informs on what signs to look out for, and the next steps one should take if these signs occur.Opioid epidemic
  • Reconsider becoming a drug-free workplace. Once it is known that your company is drug-free, it can limit the risk of work-related accidents, as well as prevent addiction from happening in an employee.
  • Create a drug and alcohol policy that allows your employees to confidentially share information with you about themselves. Make it known that your employees should feel comfortable sharing this information. Educate other employees on the current  Opioid Epidemic, and how they can help.

 Opioid Epidemic Affect On Employees

  • Being that the Opioid Epidemic has been declared a state of emergency, expect to see a few changes in company policies.

In the Department of Transportation, a request for a revision of the drug and alcohol policy has been made. If passed, the standardized drug test for the DOT will change from a 5-panel drug test to a 5-panel drug test with expanded opioid testing. While 5-panel drug tests include opiates, a SAMSHA regulated expanded test will examine for Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Oxycodone, and Oxymorphone.

  • Be expecting to take and pass a pre-employment drug screening for any job you are applying for.

In May 2017, the Federal Reserve took a survey on the reason why employers could not feel low skilled positions. One reason concluded that employees could not pass a drug test.

  • Under the American Disabilities Act or ADA, addiction itself is not considered a disability. However, if you previously engaged in the usage of drugs or alcohol, and are currently participating in a rehabilitation program, or have been successfully rehabilitated, you are eligible for social security benefits.

Opioid epidemic

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Last Thursday afternoon in a press conference the 45th President of the United States declared the Opioid Epidemic a “National State of Emergency”.

“The opioid crisis is an emergency, and I’m saying officially right now it is an emergency,” he told reporters at his golf resort in Bedminster, New Jersey. “It’s a national emergency. We’re going to spend a lot of time, a lot of effort, and a lot of money on the opioid crisis.”

What is a State of Emergency?

For those of us who don’t work in government, a “state of emergency” can sound frightening, but what does it actually mean? A government or division of government (i.e. on a municipal, provincial/state level) may declare that their area is in a state of emergency. This means that the government can suspend and/or change some functions of the executive, the legislative and/or the judiciary during this period of time. It alerts citizens to change their normal behavior and orders government agencies to implement emergency plans and frees up disaster funding for cities and states dealing with the epidemic.

Refresher on the Opioid Epidemic

A lot of people don’t know that the gist of the has been happening in the early 1990s when doctors came more aware of chronic back and muscle pain many Americans were facing. And because of this need pharmaceutical companies created opioids to meet this demand but the public and doctors were vastly unaware of the long term side effects these pills could cause.

Fast forward to early 2010s where addiction and abuse of opioids are at an all time high, especially in the United States. And once users started seeking out a stronger high, or move on to other kinds of opioids, heroin abuse was on a huge upswing.

There is a lot of speculation as to why this happened, many believe doctors were getting paid to prescribe these highly addictive drugs, others believed pharmaceutical companies knew of the addictive elements of opioids early on and wanted to get people hooked but regardless on average 90 people die every day from opioid abuse. And by 2027, as many as 650,000 people will die from this prescription drug abuse if it is not stopped.

What can we do?

From a citizens’ perspective, all we can do is help those we see in need by directing them to the nearest substance abuse counseling program and helping them kick this deadly habit. From a government perspective, declaring the opioid crisis a national state of emergency is the first step in a long series of pieces to fix this disaster before we lose any more of our fellow Americans.

Did you know Accredited Drug Testing now offers testing for expanded opiates? If you are or know of a loved one in danger of opioid prescription abuse, call 800-221-4291 to schedule your test today and take the first step on the road to recovery.

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WADA The Updated 2017 WADA Prohibited List

Dec 7 2016

WADA The Updated 2017 WADA Prohibited List

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has published the updated 2017 WADA Prohibited List, which will go into effect on January 1, 2017. This list regulates athletes, support personnel, including coaches, parents, physicians, trainers, and dieticians which should take some time to review the updated WADA Prohibited List to help understand how specific changes may impact them.

The Prohibited List is comprised of nine categories of prohibited substances and three categories of methods that are prohibited.

Individuals regulated by WADA can utilize the following link for more information on the prohibited status of an ingredient and/or medication. GlobalDRO.com.  This is an easy-to-use and trusted source that is available 24/7/365 to all athletes and support personnel.

In addition to reviewing the updated WADA Prohibited List and using Global DRO please find below some of the highlighted changes for 2017:

Substances and Methods Prohibited At All Times (In and Out-of-Competition)

  • Anabolic Agents
    • New Prohibited Substance Added: 5α-androst-2-ene-17-one, commonly known as “Delta-2” or 2-androstenone, was added as an example of metabolite of DHEA, more recently found in dietary supplements.
  • Peptide Hormones, Growth Factors, Related Substances and Mimetics
    • Prohibited Substance Added: GATA inhibitors (e.g., K-11706) and Transforming Growth Factor- β (TGF-β) inhibitors (e.g., sotatercept, luspatercept) were added.
  • S3: Beta-2 Agonists
    • New Examples of Prohibited Substances Added: Examples of selective and non-selective beta-2-agonists were added (fenoterol, formoterol, higenamine, indacaterol, olodaterol, rocaterol, reproterol, salbutamol, salmeterol, terbutaline, vilanterol). 
  • S4: Hormone and Metabolic Modulators
    • Example of Prohibited Substance Added: Androsta-3,5-diene-7,17-dione (arimistane) was added as a new example of aromatase inhibitor.

Prohibited Methods

  • Manipulations of Blood and Blood Components
    • Clarification on supplemental oxygen use: Supplemental oxygen administered by inhalation, but not intravenously, is permitted. To clarify this, M1.2 now reads “excluding supplemental oxygen by inhalation.”

Substances and Methods Prohibited In-Competition

  • Stimulants
    • Example of Prohibited Substance Added: Lisdexamfetamine was added as an example to S6.a; it is an inactive pro-drug of amphetamine
  • Narcotics
    • Prohibited Substance Added: Nicomorphine was added. It is an opioid analgesic drug, which is converted to morphine following administration.

 ** For a full listing of updates and clarifications please review the WADA Prohibited List in its entirety.

Athletes may have medically justified illnesses or conditions that require them to take a specific medication/substance, or undergo certain procedures/methods.

If an individual’s substance or method appears on the WADA Prohibited List, athletes may be granted a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE), which gives them permission to take a substance or use a method. These exemptions are only granted if the athlete provides the medical documentation necessary for an independent TUE Committee to determine that a substance or method is medically necessary to return the athlete to a normal level of health. Learn more at: www.usada.org/substances/tue.

For information regarding the effects of drug abuse – Click Here
For  information on a drug free work place – Click Here
For  information on substance abuse programs – Click Here
For information on DOT Drug / Alcohol Testing requirements – Click Here

John Burgos, CPC
Business Development Manager
https://accrediteddrugtesting.net
(800) 221-4291
Accredited Drug Testing Inc
Health Screening USA Inc

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New FRA Rules Expand Drug and Alcohol Testing

Dec 1 2016

New FRA Rules Expand Drug and Alcohol Testing

Separate rules increase protections, add Maintenance of Way workers to drug and alcohol testing policy

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) announced it has issued two final rules to better protect railroad employees working on or near railroad tracks.

One rule amends the existing Roadway Worker Protection Regulation, while the second rule, Control of Alcohol and Drug Use, amends the FRA’s current drug and  alcohol testing regulations expands the requirements to now cover maintenance of way (MOW) employees.

The second rule fulfills a requirement of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008.

The Roadway Worker Protection final rule amendments will:

  • Resolve various interpretations that have developed since the rule went into effect almost 20 years ago;
  • Implement FRA’s Railroad Safety Advisory Committee’s (RSAC) consensus recommendations;
  • Organize certain FRA Technical Bulletins;
  • Codify a FAST Act mandate by adopting new requirements governing redundant signal protections;
  • Address the safe movement of roadway maintenance machinery over signalized non-controlled track (not under a dispatcher’s control); and
  • Amend certain qualification requirements for roadway workers.

The most recent amendments require that job briefings include information for roadway worker groups on the following:

  • Accessibility of the roadway worker in charge
  • Standards for how “occupancy behind” train authorities (when the authority for a work crew does not begin until the train has passed the area) can be used; and
  • Require annual training for any individual serving as a roadway worker in charge.

“These new rules add another layer of protection for workers who work along and near railroad tracks and will help us reduce preventable worker injuries and fatalities,” said FRA Administrator Sarah E. Feinberg.

These updated changes came in response to a congressional mandate and recommendations by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).  These changes allow the FRA to broaden the scope of its existing drug and alcohol testing regulation to include Maintenance of Way (MOW) employees.

Currently, a MOW employee is only drug and alcohol tested when he or she has died as a result of an accident or incident. MOW employees will now be fully subject to FRA’s drug and alcohol testing that includes random testing, post-accident testing, reasonable suspicion testing, reasonable cause testing, pre-employment testing, return-to-duty testing and follow-up testing.

“Whether you are an engineer, conductor or someone working alongside the tracks, safety requires alertness. Any reduction in awareness caused by drugs or alcohol use can often be the difference between life and death,” Feinberg added.

The final Roadway Worker Protection rule is effective April 1, 2017. The Control of Alcohol and Drug Use goes into effect one year after publication.

http://www.fra.dot.gov/eLib/details/L17465

http://www.fra.dot.gov/eLib/Details/L17467

For information regarding the effects of drug abuse – Click Here
For  information on a drug free work place – Click Here
For  information on substance abuse programs – Click Here
For information on DOT Drug / Alcohol Testing requirements – Click Here

John Burgos, CPC
Business Development Manager
https://accrediteddrugtesting.net
(800) 221-4291
Accredited Drug Testing Inc
Health Screening USA Inc

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OSHA Issues Final Rule Improving  Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses

Oct. 25 2016

OSHA Issues Final Rule Improving Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses

OSHA’s proposed new post-accident rule has been delayed until November 1, 2016.   As the date rapidly approaches, OSHA’s FAQ page states that the new rule “does not prohibit drug testing of employees. It only prohibits employers from using drug testing, or the threat of drug testing, as a form of retaliation against employees who report injuries or illnesses.”  

Here are some checklist items all businesses should take a moment to review:

  • Does my policy require an automatic blanket testing of anyone involved in an accident?  Yes/No
  • Does my policy use post-accident triggers such as a dollar amount in relation to damage?  Yes/No
  • Does my policy require drug testing after any workplace accident, no matter the scale?  Yes/No

If you answered yes to any of the items above, then your policy could leave you open to a high risk of OSHA citation.  As always, there are exceptions to the rule.

Employers that are complying with state or federal drug testing requirements are not affected.

Here’s another checklist.  Take a look and see how it compares to the one above.

  • My policy has been reviewed recently for OSHA compliance issues?  Yes/No
  • My policy limits post-accident testing to situations and individuals where there is reasonable cause to believe impairment played a role?  Yes/No
  • My supervisors and managers are trained to recognize signs of substance abuse and document them for reasonable suspicion purposes?  Yes/No

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have already taken steps to ensure OSHA compliance.  Until the final rule is passed on November 1 please click the link below to view the information on OSHA’s website.

https://www.osha.gov/recordkeeping/finalrule/finalrule_faq.html


For information regarding the effects of drug abuse – Click Here
For  information on a drug free work place – Click Here
For  information on substance abuse programs – Click Here
For information on DOT Drug / Alcohol Testing requirements – Click Here
 

John Burgos, CPC
Business Development Manager
https://accrediteddrugtesting.net
(800) 221-4291
Accredited Drug Testing Inc
Health Screening USA Inc