What You Should Know About New DOT 5 Panel Drug Test
Employers are obligated to ensure employees are not intoxicated at work, nor do they engage in activities that can affect their operations. Due to the existence of many detox products, employers find it difficult to detect the drugs—therefore, many struggles to identify the best test kits that will detect the drugs regardless of the concentration.
The DOT 5 panel urine drug test is suitable for determining five powerful drugs such as opiates, THC, AMP, COC, and PCP. They are of two types: an instant digital readout and a strip. It is recommended for both private and public companies. Here are some details to know about the panel.
What is the New DOT 5 Panel Drug Test
The DOT 5 Panel Drug Test was the first drug test kit invented. Over the years, it has undergone numerous modifications; however, it remains a five-panel test kit. The modifications aim at increasing its efficiency and making it reliable in detecting various drugs, even in lower concentrations. The New DOT 5 Panel Drug Test is an improved version of the old kit to boost its performance and effectiveness.
Where to conduct the New DOT 5 Panel Drug Test
There are limited places where you can conduct the test. The locations to conduct the tests must meet specific federal criteria and certification. If you want to conduct a dna testing flint mi you can visit laboratories certified by the Substance Abuse and Mental health Services Administration (SAMHSA). There are many laboratories to conduct the Dot 5 panel test; however, you must ensure they are SAMHSA certified to run the tests.
These laboratories conduct the tests according to the federal regulatory standards given by the departments of health, department of health and human services (DHHS), and Department of Transportation (DOT).
The laboratory to conduct the test must also meet other certifications such as the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA-88) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP). Depending on your state, the requirements will tend to change.
Which drugs does it test?
The New DOT 5 Panel Drug Test is suitable for detecting the following drugs:
- The first panel is the opioids panel, which detects various opioids. It can detect the following opioids: 6-Acetylmorphine, morphine, oxymorphone, Hydrocodone, Codeine, and Hydromorphone.
- The second panel is for cocaine detection. It contains a metabolite called Benzoylecgonine to detect cocaine in the body.
- The third panel detects marijuana products. It contains the THCA, a metabolite of Delta 9 THC, CBD, and other hemp products.
- The fourth panel is the amphetamine panel which includes Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA), and Methamphetamine. It can detect Ecstacy and Molly.
- The fifth panel is phencyclidine which can test the presence of phencyclidine in the body. It is one of the anesthetics that commonly causes hallucinations and confusion. It can also cause detachment from things. The common street names include Angel Dust, rocket fuel, Wack, Hog, etc.
What is the process of conducting the tests
Once you submit the samples, you should expect the results in less than 48 hours. Since the DOT requires all drivers to pass the test, you can organize your test, or your employer can organize the test on your behalf. Regardless of who organizes it, the process is standard.
The first step is urine screening. You submit the urine sample to the laboratory for screening using immunoassay technology. This test is qualitative, meaning the results are either positive or negative. The Medical Review Officer will hand you the consequences if they are negative.
If they are positive, the sample undergoes second step scrutiny. This step involves the use of both high and complex qualitative and quantitative test kits to yield definitive and specific results. The test will determine the specific drugs and the concentration levels in the body. The MRO will confirm and review the results before handing them to you.
Who is eligible for the Dot 5 panel test?
The test suits all employers who wish to promote workplace ethics and federal drug policies. The transportation department defines it as one of the best test kits for testing various drugs. It can be ideal for logistics companies that must ensure drivers pass drug tests. Employers can use it to ensure workplace ethics and culture.
The test can be ideal if you are a truck driver. It can be suitable for both employed and unemployed truck drivers driving for longer distances within the country. If an employer needs to conduct the tests on the employees, laws must regulate the tests. The employee needs to provide written policies for employees and applicants.
When do you need to conduct the test?
An employer can conduct the test any time of the month or year. It can be random or based on suspicion or reasonable cause. If an employer doubts that you’re intoxicated, they can order the test. The test can also be conducted based on federal regulations. Employers can request a drug test when they wish to employ you. The employer can also order the tests when you are back from your leave.
Conclusion
The new DOT 5 panel drug test is ideal for employers or drivers engaged in long-distance trucking and businesses. The panel is suitable for testing drugs such as cocaine, marijuana, opioids, amphetamine, and phencyclidine. When you order the test, ensure it gets conducted by the laboratories that meet federal regulations and standards.
