Drug Testing Protocols & Compliance Standards Flashcards

Under DOT rules, which situation requires a directly observed collection?

Answer: The lab reports the specimen as invalid for the second time

A second invalid result on a recollection triggers a directly observed collection requirement under 49 CFR Part 40.

What is the cutoff concentration for an initial immunoassay screen for marijuana metabolites (THC-COOH) in federal urine testing?

Answer: 50 ng/mL

The federal initial test cutoff for THC-COOH is 50 ng/mL; confirmed positive requires GC-MS at 15 ng/mL.

Which confirmatory method is required to confirm an initial positive screening result in federal workplace testing?

Answer: Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS)

GC-MS is the required confirmatory technique for federal workplace drug tests due to its high specificity and sensitivity.

An employee subject to DOT testing tests positive for cocaine. The MRO interviews the employee, who claims passive exposure. The MRO should:

Answer: Verify the result as positive regardless of the claim

Passive inhalation is not a legitimate medical explanation that allows an MRO to alter a positive result; the MRO must verify it as positive.

How long must a certified laboratory retain a confirmed positive urine specimen?

Answer: 1 year

Confirmed positive specimens must be retained by the laboratory for a minimum of 1 year under SAMHSA guidelines.

A non-DOT employer wants to establish a drug-free workplace program. Which federal guideline serves as a best-practice model?

Answer: SAMHSA Drug-Free Workplace Toolkit

The SAMHSA Drug-Free Workplace Toolkit provides guidance for private employers not mandated by DOT regulations.

What happens when a donor refuses to sign the certification statement on the CCF?

Answer: The collector notes the refusal and the test proceeds

A donor's refusal to sign the CCF is noted by the collector, but the specimen is still collected and sent to the lab.