6 Things to Know About US Coast Guard Drug Testing
The US Coast Guard regulations require all seamen on merchant fleets and the crew of passenger vessels to undergo a drug test
. There are several alcohol and drug testing programs implemented by the US Coast Guard and the Department of Transportation.
These are programs that discourage substance abuse among employees in the marine sector:
1. Pre-employment drug test
A pre employment drug test has become a common hiring requirement among employers. The US Coast Guard stipulates that a marine employer can only employ an individual as a crewmember if the individual passes a chemical test for dangerous drugs.
2. Random drug test
The US Coast Guard also requires that marine employers have their crewmembers undergo random chemical testing for dangerous drugs. The selection of crewmembers for random drug testing should be scientifically valid.
3. Post accident drug test
The employer should ensure that everyone directly involved in a serious marine accident be chemically tested for alcohol or dangerous drugs. This form of drug testing helps reduce a company's liability.
4. Reasonable cause test
This form of drug test is carried out when an employee is suspected to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while at work. The US Coast Guard requires that a marine employer should require a crewmember to undergo drug testing if there is reasonable belief that the individual is using a dangerous drug.
5. Return to duty drug test
A return to duty drug test is for employees who have previously violated the company's drug testing policy. They are allowed to return to work once they submit this form of test, but will be required to take a series of follow-up tests in the future.
The US Coast Guard rules and regulations state that an employee who refuses to submit to a drug test or receives a verified positive drug test result must take a return to duty drug test until the individual gets a verified negative result.
6. Follow-up drug test
A crewmember who has a positive drug test or who refuses to take the test is subject to at least six unannounced follow-up drug tests within the crewmember's first year of returning to duty.
These programs by the US Coast Guard help minimize use of intoxicants and other substances. Strictly implementing these programs ensures a safe and drug free working environment for all.
6 Things to Know About US Coast Guard Drug Testing