The US Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates several industries, including aviation and trucking, to ensure the safety of passengers and other road users. One of the key requirements for companies operating in these industries is drug and alcohol testing for safety-sensitive employees.
Small companies regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) may struggle to meet all the testing requirements of the US DOT on their own. That’s where drug and alcohol testing consortiums come in.
A consortium is a group of companies that pool their resources to meet DOT testing requirements. By joining a consortium, small companies can benefit from shared resources, including drug and alcohol testing facilities, trained professionals, and access to DOT-approved testing equipment.
The US DOT encourages small companies to join a consortium for several reasons. First, joining a consortium can save companies time and money, as they no longer have to establish and maintain their own testing programs. This is particularly beneficial for small companies with limited resources.
Second, being part of a consortium can provide small companies with access to a broader range of testing services.
Third, being part of a consortium can help small companies stay up-to-date with changes to DOT regulations. Consortia often provide regular updates and training to ensure that companies are aware of the latest testing requirements and best practices.
Norton Medical is one example of a company that helps FAA and FMCSA regulated companies comply with federal drug testing regulations. Norton Medical has a long history of providing drug and alcohol testing services to companies in these industries, and they also offer consortium services to help small companies meet DOT testing requirements.
Norton Medical’s consortium program offers a range of benefits to member companies, including access to DOT-approved testing equipment, trained professionals, and a comprehensive drug and alcohol testing program. The program also includes regular updates on changes to DOT regulations and best practices for compliance.
In addition to its consortium program, Norton Medical also provides a range of other drug and alcohol testing services to FAA and FMCSA regulated companies. These services include pre-employment testing, random testing, post-accident testing, and reasonable suspicion testing.
Overall, joining a drug and alcohol testing consortium can be a beneficial option for small companies regulated by the FAA and FMCSA. Consortia can provide access to resources and expertise that may be difficult for small companies to obtain on their own. Companies like Norton Medical can help these companies meet DOT testing requirements and maintain a safe and compliant workplace for their employees and the public.
