US DOT+ Cross Border Requirements Drug & Alcohol Testing
Click on our various DOT tests listed below to learn more about each.
POCT Tests
This is an instant drug test that immediately reveals if there are any drugs in the system. The basic six-panel urine test detects cocaine, THC (the active ingredient in marijuana), opiates, PCP, methamphetamines, amphetamines.
While the Point of Collection Test (POCT) does not measure quantity, it is a good starting point to establish whether drugs are present. The test uses the same cut-off levels as the more expensive lab-based drug test.
Our kits have a built-in adulteration strip that will detect any illicit tampering with the urine sample. This adulteration strip determines if the specific gravity, PH and creatinine levels are within normal range, as well as if anything has been added to the urine.
We also conduct a variety of other POCT tests including 7,8 and 10-panel drug test that covers a more extensive list of drugs. It is usually only necessary if prescription drug use is suspected. This 10-panel drug test detects benzodiazepines, barbiturates, methadone and oxycodone.
Urine Tests
This tests for the same drugs as the POCT instant test but is processed and analyzed in an outside laboratory and a process called gas chromatograph and mass spectrometer (GC-MS) is conducted. As opposed to POCT collection results, lab-based urine drug testing results are quantitative and legally defensible results.
If the results come back positive for any substance, our Medical Review Officer will determine whether the drug can legally be present in the test subject’s system.
Some prescription drugs present as illegal substances. The Medical Review Officer will contact the client directly to discuss any prescription medications, the dose of such medications and the prescribing doctor. If they have a valid prescription for that medication that presents itself, it is not considered a positive drug test.
***Need to Know*** You will be required to provide a urine sample so please be ready to use the washroom upon your arrival. If you cannot provide a sufficient sample, you may be required to stay for up to three hours.
Breath Alcohol Tests
A breath alcohol test (BAT) at our facility is similar to a breathalyzer test the police would administer. We use the Phoenix 6.0 breath alcohol machine, which measures the content of alcohol in a person’s system from a breath sample.
The test subject simply takes a deep breath and then blows into the machine until their lungs are empty. Our Certified Breath Alcohol Technicians are also Phoenix 6.0 Factory Authorized Operators and Calibration Technicians – enabling us to provide our clients with Legally Defensible Results
We’re available for pre-access alcohol (& drug) testing plus on-site alcohol testing or come into one of our 17 locations for breathalyzer testing.
DOT Testing & Programs
We provide DOT drug and alcohol testing of safety-sensitive transportation employees in aviation, trucking, railroads, mass transit, pipelines, and other transportation industries.
The US Department of Transportation (US DOT) program came to Canada in 1996 as a result of the NAFTA agreement. The US DOT programs utilize the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) / The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) certified laboratory to perform drug testing on urine specimens.
Our certified technician can help you with your DOT testing needs effectively, and quickly.
For help with your DOT testing, and compliance contact us today.
Random Drug Screening Programs
Random drug testing is a strong deterrent to drug users as it is conducted on an unannounced basis. Using a random (DOT approved) computer-generated selection process, we select one or more individuals from all the employees included in the employer’s workplace drug-testing program. By using a random selection process, employers ensure that there is no bias and that all employees have an equal chance of being selected, even those who have been drug tested recently. Random drug testing can be more effective at detecting and deterring drug use than pre-employment testing because employees do not know when they may be selected for testing.
Our random testing programs are also very helpful in satisfying court ordered testing requirements and other personal random testing programs. With some drugs only detectible for 24-72 hours, often random testing programs are one of the most effective way to determine drug use.
Contact us today for more information or to set up a Random Screening Program.
Court Orders & Expert Witness Consultations
Whether it’s a serious or light issue and you need clarification – let us handle it. Our testers are certified and come with over 25 years of experience. We have seen it all, our expertise is vast and cost-effective.
We can provide assistance whether it be providing expert reports or physically attending court/hearings to give testimony. Our testers have been certified as Expert Witnesses by the Supreme Court of B.C. and would be happy to help you with our legally defensible tests.
Post-Accident Drug Testing
Post-accident drug testing is performed after an employee has been involved in a workplace accident. Testing is used to determine whether drugs were a factor in the incident. Employers who implement post-accident drug testing must establish objective criteria for how and when testing will occur.
Because these tests are time sensitive, we provide a 24/7 mobile service. Contact us today if you would like to hear more.
24/7 Mobile Testing
Has there been an incident, or do you need emergency drug and alcohol testing?
We understand the sometimes immediate and confidential nature of testing, and we are available for you 24/7. Whether you require us on site or there is a sensitive family matter, we can come to you. Contact us today to find out more information about our mobile service.
US Waivers
With nearly one in seven adult Canadians having a criminal record, you are not alone. We can provide you with professional and credible documentation to assist with one step of your application process. For help with any of the following, please contact us today.
- Getting jobs
- Finding a place to live
- Being licensed in a profession
- Acquiring student aid
- Volunteering for most community-based organizations