Federal Rule Will Allow Oral Fluid Drug Testing

A final rule to allow oral fluid drug test as an alternative to urine screening in federally regulated industries is scheduled to be published on May 2 in the Federal Register. The rule is scheduled to go into effect in 30 days pending the certification of at least two laboratories for oral testing by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). According to the pre-publication Federal Register notice, HHS has determined that oral fluid testing, like urine drug testing, is “accurate and defensible.” In addition, regulators say oral fluid testing will give employers another testing method to help prevent attempts to cheat on urine drug screens and provide “a less intrusive means of achieving the safety goals of the program.”

The rule describes Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs: Addition of Oral Fluid Specimen Testing for Drugs. It applies to bus and commercial truck drivers, airplane pilots, train operators and others who are covered by regulatory requirements issued by the Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Federal Railroad Administration and Federal Transit Administration.

WorkCare offers employers a comprehensive range of workplace substance use testing programs and screening methodologies in regulated and unregulated industries. Write to info@workcare.com to to learn more or visit our Medical Exams & Travel webpage.