6 Things to Know About US Coast Guard Drug Testing

The US Coast Guard regulations require allThis form of drug test is carried out when an
seamen on merchant fleets and the crew ofemployee is suspected to be under the influence
passenger vessels to undergo a drug test. Thereof alcohol or drugs while at work. The US Coast
are several alcohol and drug testing programsGuard requires that a marine employer should
implemented by the US Coast Guard and therequire a crewmember to undergo drug testing if
Department of Transportation.there is reasonable belief that the individual is using
These are programs that discourage substancea dangerous drug.
abuse among employees in the marine sector:5. Return to duty drug test
1. Pre-employment drug testA return to duty drug test is for employees who
A pre employment drug test has become ahave previously violated the company's drug
common hiring requirement among employers.testing policy. They are allowed to return to work
The US Coast Guard stipulates that a marineonce they submit this form of test, but will be
employer can only employ an individual as arequired to take a series of follow-up tests in the
crewmember if the individual passes a chemicalfuture.
test for dangerous drugs.The US Coast Guard rules and regulations state
2. Random drug testthat an employee who refuses to submit to a
The US Coast Guard also requires that marinedrug test or receives a verified positive drug test
employers have their crewmembers undergoresult must take a return to duty drug test until
random chemical testing for dangerous drugs. Thethe individual gets a verified negative result.
selection of crewmembers for random drug6. Follow-up drug test
testing should be scientifically valid.A crewmember who has a positive drug test or
3. Post accident drug testwho refuses to take the test is subject to at
The employer should ensure that everyoneleast six unannounced follow-up drug tests within
directly involved in a serious marine accident bethe crewmember's first year of returning to duty.
chemically tested for alcohol or dangerous drugs.These programs by the US Coast Guard help
This form of drug testing helps reduce aminimize use of intoxicants and other substances.
company's liability.Strictly implementing these programs ensures a
4. Reasonable cause testsafe and drug free working environment for all.