HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolutions - No. 2008-76RESOLUTION NO. 2008-76
A RESOLUTION OF THE LODI CITY COUNCIL
AMENDING THE DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING
POLICYAND THE DRUG AND ALCOHOL
TESTING PROCEDURESTO MEET DEPARTMENT
OF TRANSPORTATION REQUIREMENTS
WHEREAS, the City of Lodi previously adopted a Drug and Alcohol Testing
Policy and Procedureon April 26, 1995, and amended it on July 18,2007; and
WHEREAS, due to Federal Transportation Administration requirements applying
to employees who operate or maintain Department of Transportation funded equipment
and machinery, an amendment to that policy is required.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Lodi City Council does hereby
amend the Drug and Alcohol Policy and the Drug and Alcohol Procedures to meet
Department of Transportation requirements, as shown on Exhibit A and B attached
hereto and made a part of this Resolution; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the effective date of this policy shall be May 8,
M
Dated: May 7, 2008
hereby certify that Resolution No. 2008-76 was passed and adopted by the City
Council of the City of Lodi in a regular meeting held May 7, 2008, by the following vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS— Hansen, Hitchcock, Johnson, Katzakian,
and Mayor Mounce
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS — None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS — None
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS— None
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CITY OF LODI
ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY AND PROCEDURE MANUAL
SUBJECT DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING - Policy
DATE ISSUED: May 7,2008
SECTION: D
REFERENCE: US DOT (FTA) 49 CFR Part 40;
49 CFR Part 655
49 CFR Part 382
49 CFR Part 29
Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing
Act of 1991
SECTION 1:
PURPOSE
The City of Lodi is committed to providing safe and
efficient public services in fulfilling our responsibilities to the citizens of our
community. To achieve this purpose, it is the policy of the City to:
Provide a workplace free from the adverse effects of drug and alcohol abuse or misuse;
Assure that employees are not impaired in their ability to perform assigned duties in a
safe and productive manner;
Encourage employees to seek professional assistance for drug and alcohol abuse or
dependency;
Comply with all Federal and State regulations requiring a drug-free workplace.
Coverage under this policy does not exempt covered employees from compliance with
the City's Drug -Free Workplace Policy and Procedure. The obligations and
requirements set forth below are in addition to existing obligations and requirements
set forth in the Drug -Free Workplace Policy and Procedure.
SECTION 2: EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
"he City has established a voluntary Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to aid
those employees who voluntarily seek help for alcohol or drug problems. Employees
should contact their supervisors, the EAP provider, or the Human Resources Division
for additional information.
Employees who think they may have an alcohol or drug usage problem are encouraged
to voluntarily seek confidential assistance from the EAP or other available resources.
Employees who voluntarily come forward and seek assistance will not be disciplined
solely for having or admitting a drug or alcohol problem. The City will take into
consideration employees' performance problems caused by such dependency. The
voluntary seeking of treatment shall not provide immunity from disciplinary action
which were proposed or in process. However, action on related problems may be
postponed pending successful resolution of the usage problem. Successful completion
of a drug or alcohol treatment program shall be considered when determining
disciplinary actions. While the City will be supportive of those who seek help
voluntarily, the City will be equally fiin in identifying and disciplining those who
continue to be substance abusers and do not voluntarily seek help or continue
substance abuse even while enrolled in counseling or rehabilitation programs.
SECTION 3: CITY ADMINISTRATOR
The Human Resources Division is designated to
administer this policy and procedure and to answer questions concerning its
implementation. The Human Resources Division may be contacted as follows:
City of Lodi
P.O. Box 3006
Lodi, CA 95241-1910
Phone: (209) 333-6704
SECTION 4: COVERED EMPLOYEES
Employees in classifications listed in Appendix A are "covered employees" because
they perform "safety sensitive functions" as described in Section 6 below, and thus are
subject to all of the provisions of this policy.""
An employee may be given a written exemption from this Policy by Human Resources,
if the employee'sjob duties do not include performing a "safety sensitive function."
SECTION 5: DEFINITIONS
Accident: Means an occurrence associated with the operation of a vehicle, if as a
result
1) An individual dies;
2) An individual suffers a bodily injury and immediately receives medical treatment
away from the scene of the accident;
3) One or more vehicles incur disabling damage as the result of the occurrence and
are transported away from the scene by a tow truck or other vehicle. For purposes of
this definition, "disabling damage" means damage which precludes departure of any
vehicle from the scene of the occurrence in its usual manner in daylight after simple
repairs. Disabling damage includes damage to vehicles that could have been operated
but would have been further damaged if so operated, but does not include damage
which can be remedied temporarily at the scene of the occurrence without special tools
or parts, tire disablement without other damage even if no spare tire is available, or
damage to headlights, taillights, turn signals, horn, or windshield wipers that makes
the inoperative; or
4) When a State or local law enforcement authority issues a citation to the covered
employee for a moving violation arising from the accident.
Alcohol: The intoxicating agent in beverage alcohol, ethyl alcohol or other low
molecular weight alcohols including methyl and isopropyl alcohol.
Alcohol Concentration: The alcohol in a volume of breath expressed in terms of grams
of alcohol per 210 liters of breath as indicated by a breath test.
Alcohol Use: The consumption of any beverage, mixture, or preparation, including any
medication, containing alcohol.
Breath Alcohol Technician (BATJ: An individual who instructs and assists
individuals in the alcohol testing process and operates an evidential breath testing
device (EBT).
Chain of Custodv: Procedures to account for the integrity of each urine or blood
specimen by tracking its handling and storage from point of specimen collection to
final disposition of the specimen.
Confirmation (or confirmatory) Test: For alcohol testing means a second test,
following a screening test with a result of 0.012`2' or greater, that provides quantitative
data of alcohol concentration. For controlled substances testing means a second
analytical procedure to identify the presence of a specific drug or metabolite which is
independent of the screen test and which uses a different technique and chemical
principle from that of the screen test in order to ensure reliability and accuracy. Gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) is the only authorized confirmation
method for cocaine, marijuana, opiates, amphetamines, and phencyclidine.
Controlled Substance (drug): Any illegal drug or any substance identified in
schedules I through V of the Controlled Substances Act as they may be amended.
This includes, but is not limited to: marijuana (THC metabolite), amphetamines,
opiates (including Heroin), phencyclidine (PCP), and cocaine, as well as any drug not
approved for medical use by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration or the U.S.
Food and Drug Administration. Illegal use includes use of any illegal drug, misuse of
legally prescribed drugs, and use of illegally obtained prescription drugs. Substances
for testing will only be added to the panel for testing only with agreement of the
affected collective bargaining units or as required by the appropriate regulatory
agency.
Evidential Breath Testing Device (EBT): A device approved by the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the evidential testing of breath
and placed on NHSTA's "Conforming Products List of Evidential Breath Measurement
Devices"(CPL).
Medical Review Officer (MRO): A licensed physician responsible for receiving
laboratory results generated by the City's Drug -Free Workplace and Drug and Alcohol
Testing program who has knowledge of substance abuse disorders and has
appropriate medical training to interpret and evaluate an individual's confirmed
positive test result together with his/her medical history and any other relevant
biomedical information.
Performing a Safetv-Sensitive Function: An employee is considered to be
performing a safety -sensitive function during any period in which he or she is actually
performing, ready to perform, or immediately available to perform any safety -
sensitive function.
Screening Test (also known as initial testi: In alcohol testing, an analytical
procedure to determine whether an employee may have a prohibited concentration of
alcohol in a breath specimen. Testing is only permitted just before, during, and just
after the performance of safety -sensitive duties. In controlled substance testing, an
immunoassay screen to eliminate "negative" urine specimens from further analysis.
Substance Abuse Professional (SAP): ASAP
SECTION 6: SAFETY -SENSITIVE FUNCTIONS
A safety sensitive function is driving one of the following vehicles:
A. a vehicle with a gross combination weight of at least 26,001 pounds
inclusive of a towed unit with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than
10,000 pounds;
B. a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of at least 26,001 pounds;
C. a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the
driver; or
D. a vehicle used to transport those hazardous materials found in the
Hazardous Materials Transportation Act.
SECTION 7: PROHIBITIONS
The following conduct is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action, up to and
including termination:
A. Reporting for duty or remaining on duty requiring the performance of safety
sensitive functions while having an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or greater;
B. The use of alcohol within the four (4) hours preceding the performance of safety -
sensitive functions, and the allowance of an employee to perform safety -sensitive
functions with the knowledge that the employee has used alcohol within that time
fi-ame.
Employees who are in a "stand-by" status, shall not use alcohol or controlled
substances while in such status. Employees who may be subject to "call -out" for
emergency situations, and who may be the only qualified employee available for such
duty, and who has used alcohol, may respond to such calls under the following
guidelines:
(I)That the employee immediately notify the supervisor of the use of alcohol within
the last four hours and the determination for the employee to respond is approved by
the supervisor; (2) That the employee perform simple tasks of minimal
risk to the safety sensitive functions(s); and (3)That the employee does not use alcohol
after he/she has been notified to report for emergency duty.
C. Being on duty or operating a vehicle described in Section 4 above, while
possessing alcohol;
D. Using alcohol while performing a safety sensitive function;
E. Reporting for duty or remaining on duty requiring the performance of safety
sensitive functions when the employee used any controlled substances, except if the
use is pursuant to the instructions of a physician who has advised the employee that
the substance does not adversely affect the employee's ability to safely operate a
vehicle; or DOT funded equipment and machinery.
F. Reporting for duty or remaining on duty requiring the performance of safety
sensitive functions if the employee tests positive for controlled substances;
G. Refusing to submit to any alcohol or controlled substances test required by this
policy. Such refusal (see Section 8) shall be considered an act of insubordination. The
consequences for a refusal to submit to a required test are the same as if the employee
had tested at 0.04 or greater or had violated any of the other prohibitions in this
policy.
H. The allowance of an employee to perform or continue to perform safety -sensitive
functions after having knowledge of the employee's use of alcohol or controlled
substances while on duty.
I. An employee who has actual knowledge of an accident in which his/her
performance of a safety -sensitive function has not been discounted by the City as a
contributing factor to the accident is prohibited from using alcohol for eight (8)hours
following the accident. The prohibition ends eight (8) hours after the accident (i,e.
when a test is no longer required), once the employee has taken a post -accident test, or
once the City has determined that the employee's performance could not have
contributed to the accident.
SECTION 8: REFUSAL TO SUBMIT TO AN ALCOHOL
AND/OR DRUG TEST
A refusal to submit to an alcohol or controlled substances test required by this policy
includes, but is not limited to:
A. A refusal to provide a urine sample for a drug test.
B. An inability to provide a urine sample without a valid medical explanation;
C. A refusal to complete and sign the breath alcohol testing form, or otherwise to
cooperate with the testing process in way that prevents the completion of the test;
D. An inability to provide breath or to provide an adequate amount of breath without
a valid medical explanation;
E. Tampering with or attempting to adulterate the urine specimen or collection
procedure;
F. Not reporting to the collection site in the time allotted by the supervisor or
manager who directs the employee to be tested;
G. Leaving the scene of an accident without a valid reason as to why authorization
from a supervisor or manager who shall make a determination whether to send
the employee for a post -accident drug and/or alcohol test was not obtained.
H. A failure to undergo medical examination.
A failure to permit monitoring/observation.
J. A failure to take a second test.
K. Providing a verified adulterated or substituted sample.
L. A failure to remain until the testing process is complete.
SECTION 9: CONSEQUENCES FOR EMPLOYEES FOUND TO
HAVE ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION LEVELS OF
0.01 OR GREATER BUT LESS THAN 0.04
An employee whose alcohol test indicates an alcohol concentration level between 0.01
and 0.04 will be removed from his or her safety sensitive position for at least twenty-
four (24) hours.
SECTION 10: CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH DRUG AND
ALCOHOL TESTING WILL BE IMPOSED ON
COVERED EMPLOYEES
A. Pre -Employment Testing: All applicants for classifications which are covered by
the appropriate Department of Transportation regulations (See Section 4 above), as
well as all employees who transfer from classifications which are not covered to
classifications which are covered, will be required to submit to pre-employment/pre-
duty drug and alcohol testing. Applicants/employees will not be assigned to a safety
sensitive position until after a verified negative drug test result.
If the applicant has previously worked for a DOT employer and has previously failed
or refused a pre-employment drug test administered under this part within the past
two years, the applicant is not eligible for the position.
If a pre-employment drug test is canceled, the City shall require the covered employee
or applicant to take another pre-employment drug test administered under this part
with a verified negative result.
When a covered employee or applicant has not performed a safety -sensitive function
for 90 consecutive calendar days regardless of the reason, and the employee has not
been in the City's random selection pool during that time, the City shall ensure that
the employee takes a pre-employment drug test with a verified negative result.
B. Post -Accident Testing: Post -Accident drug and alcohol testing will be conducted
on employees following an accident where the employee's performance cannot be
discounted as a contributing factor.
The decision as to whether or not to test the employee will be made by a supervisory
and/or management employees. The presumption is for testing. The only reason an
employee will not be tested following an accident is if a determination is made that
the employee's performance could not have been a contributing factor. 49 CFR part
655 criteria for testing is a fatality, the need for medical attention away from the
scene, and/or disabling damage to the vehicle. An employee must receive emergency
medical care before being required to submit to a post accident drug and alcohol test.
Post -accident alcohol tests shall be administered within two (2) hours following an
accident and no test may be administered after eight (8)hours. A post -accident drug
test shall be conducted within thirty-two (32) hours following the accident. If the
appropriate test is not administered within two (2) hours following the accident, the
employee's supervisor shall immediately provide written documentation to the Human
Resources Manager stating the reasons why the test was not promptly administered.
C. Random Testing: Covered employees will be subject to random alcohol and drug
testing as follows:
(1) A random alcohol test will be administered
during any period in which the employee is ready to perform, immediately available to
perform, is actually performing, or just after the employee has ceased performing
safety -sensitive functions. Please refer to the definition of "Performing a Safety -
Sensitive Function" in Section 5 of this policy.
(2) Testing rates are determined by the
appropriate regulatory agency.
(3) The selection of employees for random drug
and alcohol testing shall be made by a scientifically valid method, such as a random
number table or a computer-based random number generator. Each covered employee
shall have an equal chance of being tested each time selections are made.
(4) On the day the employee is selected for
random drug testing, his/her supervisor will ensure his/her duties are covered. The
employee will receive a written notice indicating the time he/she is to report to the lab
for testing.
(5) The City shall ensure that the dates for
administering random tests are spread reasonably throughout the calendar year.
Random testing must be conducted at all times of day when safety -sensitive functions
are performed.
(6) Random tests are unannounced and
immediate. There is an equal chance of selection on each draw with no discretion on
the part of management.
D. Reasonable Suspicion Testing: Covered employees are also required to submit to
an alcohol or drug test when a trained supervisor has reasonable suspicion to believe
the employee is under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances. The
observation must be based on short-term indicators, such as blurry eyes, slurring, or
alcohol on the breath.
A covered employee shall only be randomly tested for alcohol misuse while the
employee is performing safety -sensitive functions; just before the employee is to
perform safety -sensitive functions; or just after the employee has ceased performing
such functions.
To ensure that supervisors are trained to make reasonable suspicion determinations,
supervisors vested with the authority to demand a reasonable suspicion drug and
alcohol test will attend at least one hour of training on alcohol misuse and at least one
hour of training on controlled substances use. The training will cover the physical,
behavioral, speech, and performance indicators of probable alcohol misuse and use of
controlled substances.
SECTION 11: CONSEQUENCES OF FAILING AN ALCOHOL
AND/OR DRUG TEST
A positive result from a drug or alcohol test shall result in the mandatory removal of
the employee from the safety -sensitive position. Consequences may include discipline,
up to and including termination. An employee that produces a dilute negative
specimen will be required to take another test immediately.
SECTION 12: COSTS OF TESTING
Where there is testing for reasonable cause, the employee shall be placed on paid
administrative leave pending the outcome of the test.
Time spent in conjunction with pre -duty, post -accident, random and reasonable
suspicion testing shall be considered as paid time. The City shall also pay for the
costs of these tests. The time an employee is removed from safety -sensitive functions
is borne by the employee. Such employee may use accrued time including sick leave to
cover the absence.
SECTION 13: INFORMATION CONCERNING THE EFFECTS
OF ALCOHOL AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
AND AVAILABLE METHODS OF
INTERVENTION
Available from the Personnel Department are Fact Sheets addressing the effects of
alcohol and the various controlled substances which are tested for under this Policy.
SECTION 14: EMPLOYEE REPRESENTATION
Employees shall have the right to representation only during discussions with
management prior to a reasonable suspicion test. If a shop steward is not available,
an available department employee may be selected to represent the interests of said
employee. Such contact shall not, in any way, delay or interfere with the
implementation of this policy and its procedure.
APPENDIX A
COVERED EMPLOYEES
Employees in the classifications listed below are covered under the applicable
regulations for those employees. Covered employees are:
A. Those who perform "safety sensitive" functions as defined in the City of
Lodi Drug and Alcohol notingPolicy.
B. Maintenance personnel, who perform various repairs to revenue vehicles
(including repairs, overhaul and rebuilding)
C. Employees with a commercial driver's license that will operate a revenue service,
or non -revenue service DOT funded transit vehicle (includes the operation of the
Lifts or anyone who assists passengers to assure they are secured in the vehicles).
D. Drivers operating a revenue service vehicle, including when not in revenue
service.
Employees may be included in more than one listing below in accordance to the various
regulatory agencies under which their work specification is assigned. All covered
employees shall be managed as one pool for testing purposes and shall be tested in
accordance with the highest level of testing required.
.Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Alcohol testing administered at 10% of the total number of covered employees
Drug test administered to at least 0% of covered employees
(1) Public Works Department
Equipment Maintenance Division
Lead Equipment Mechanic
Welder Mechanic
Heavy Equipment Mechanic
Equipment Service Worker
Fleet Services Supervisor
Street Division
Street Supervisor
Street Maintenance Worker III
Laborer Maintenance Worker I/11
Water/Wastewater Division
Water/Wastewater Supervisor
Plant and Equipment Mechanic
Water/Wastewater Maintenance Worker III
Laborer/Maintenance Worker 1111
(2) Electric Utility Department
Apprentice Linemdinewoman
Electric Lineman/Linewoman
Electric Foreman/Forewoman
Electric Apparatus Mechanic
Utility Equipment Specialist
A covered employee includes regular and part-time/temporary employees in the above
listed classifications.
Federal Transit Administration (FTA)
Alcohol testing administered at 10% of the total number of covered employees
Drug test administered to at least 25% of covered employees
(1) Public Works Department
Eauipment Maintenance Division
Lead Equipment Mechanic
Welder Mechanic
Heavy Equipment Mechanic
Equipment Service Worker
Fleet Services Supervisor
LJnites States Coast Guard (USCG)
No alcohol testing required per Coast Guard regulations
Drug test administered to at least 50%cf covered employees
Small Vessel Operators
1EXHIBIT BI
CITY 91 LODI _
ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY AND PROC
SUBJECT DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING -
Procedure
DATE ISSUED: May 7,2008
SECTION: D
REFERENCE: US DOT (FTA) 49 CFR Part 40
49 CFR Part 655
49 CFR Part 382
49 CFR Part 29
Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing
Act of 1991
SECTION 1: PURPOSE
The purpose of this procedure is to delineate the
application of the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act under the
regulations of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
SECTION 2: EFFECTIVE DATE
This procedure shall be effective
SECTION 3: ALCOHOL TESTING CONTROLLED
SUBSTANCE COLLECTION. AND LABORATORY
SITES
The identity and locations of the alcohol testing,
controlled substance collection, and laboratory sites and facilities shall be retained in
the Human Resources Division and shall be made immediately available upon
request.
SECTION 4: FORMS OF TESTING
The procedures for each of the forms of testing being
conducted by the City are described in Sections 5 through 8 of this Procedure.
Inherent to each procedure, at the time of collection and/or testing, the employee is to
have in his/her possession an appropriate form of identification.
SECTION 5: PRE-EMPLOYMENT TESTING
A. Pre-employment drug/alcohol testing shall be conducted upon the conditional
offer of employment. This offer of employment is contingent upon the successful
completion of all medical exams and drug/alcohol screenings.
B. Upon completion of the hiring interview the department shall notify the
Human Resources Division of its conditional offer of employment to the candidate, and
of the candidate's acceptance of this offer. The hiring department shall refer the
candidate to the Human Resources Division. The Human Resources Division shall
notify the candidate of the types of testing to be conducted, have the candidate
complete the appropriate notification forms, and schedule the candidate for the
appropriate testing at the appropriate collection and/or testing site.
C. Upon completion of the drugialcohol testing, the Human Resources Division
shall notify the hiring department of such results.
D. Notification of the results for controlled substance testing shall be provided to
the candidate provided the candidate requests the results within 60 days of being
notified of the disposition of his/her employment application.
E. The City shall obtain, upon written consent of the employee, information on the
employee's alcohol tests with a concentration result of 0.01 or greater, positive
controlled substances test results, and refusals to be tested, within the preceding two
(2) years from previous employers. This information shall be obtained and reviewed
by the City no later than fourteen (14)calendar days after the first time an employee
performs safety -sensitive functions. The employee shall not perform any safety -
sensitive functions after fourteen (14) calendar days without obtaining the
information.
F. As an employer the City is required to verify previous violations of DOT drug and
alcohol regulations within the last two years of employment with a DOT regulated agency or
employer. An employer must obtain and review the information listed below from any DOT -
regulated employer for which the employee performed safety -sensitive functions in the previous
two years. The information obtained must include:
1. Information of the employee's alcohol test in which a breath alcohol
concentration of 0.04 or greater was indicated.
2. Information of the employee's controlled substance test in which a positive
result was indicated.
3. Any refusal to submit to a required alcohol or controlled substance test.
(including verified adulterated or substituted drug test results)
4. Other violations of DOT agency drug and alcohol testing regulations.
SECTION 6: RANDOM TESTING
All covered employees shall be subject to periodic
random testing. In accordance with, and subject to modification by the DOT,
employees shall be tested at the minimum annual percentage rate of ten percent
(10%)of the average number of employees covered by this policy for random alcohol;
and fifty percent (50%) of the average number of employees covered by this policy for
random controlled substances.
A. Random generation. Covered employees shall
be scheduled for unannounced alcohol and controlled substance tests and selected for
testing by utilizing a random number generator. Each employee shall have an equal
chance of being tested each time selections are made.
B. Employee notification. On the date the
employee is selected for testing, the employee's supervisor shall be notified of the
selection. The supervisor shall provide written notification of selection for testing to
the employee. The supervisor shall arrange coverage of the employee's duties. The
supervisor shall direct the employee to cease the performance of safety -sensitive
functions, and to immediately proceed to the appropriate testing and/or collection site.
An employee shall only be tested for alcohol during
any period in which he/she is actually performing, ready to perform, immediately
available to perform, or just after the employee has ceased performing safety -sensitive
functions.
SECTION 7: REASONABLE SUSPICION TESTING
A. Reasonable suspicion is a belief based on
objective facts sufficient to lead a reasonably prudent supervisor to suspect that an
employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol so that the employee's ability to
perform the functions of the job is impaired or so that the employee's ability to
perform the job safely is reduced.
B. As currently provided in the City's Drug -Free
Workplace Policy and Procedure, the City may require an employee to submit to an
alcohol and/or controlled substance test whenever it has reasonable suspicion to
believe that an employee has violated the prohibitions of the Drug and Alcohol Testing
Policy.
C. Alcohol testing is authorized only if the
observations leading to reasonable suspicion are made during,just preceding, orjust
after the period of the work day that the employee is performing the safety -sensitive
functions of his/her position.
D. Any supervisor or manager who has
determined reasonable suspicion shall immediately prevent or direct the employee to
stop performing the duties of his/her position, and inform the employee that he/she
shall be referred to alcohol/drug testing on such basis.
E. The supervisor or manager shall immediately
contact his/her supervisor and the Human Resources Manager with notification of the
action taking place, and shall transport the employee to the testing/collection site.
F. The employee shall be immediately
transported by the supervisor to the alcohol testing and/or collection site and said test
shall be administered within two (2) hours following the determination of reasonable
suspicion.
G. The supervisor or manager shall document in
writing the facts constituting reasonable suspicion that the employee in question is
intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
H. Any supervisor or manager encountering an
employee who refuses to submit to a drug and/or alcohol test shall remind the
employee of the requirements and disciplinary consequences of this policy and
procedure. The employee's refusal shall be documented in writing. Where there is
reasonable suspicion that the employee is then under the influence of alcohol or drugs,
the supervisor or manager should arrange for the employee to be safely transported
home after the employee has undergone alcohol and controlled substance testing.
I. Upon completion of the testing, the supervisor
is to contact the Human Resources Manager and report the status of such testing.
SECTION 8: POST -ACCIDENT TESTING
A. The employee's supervisor or manager shall
make a determination to conduct post -accident testing in accordance with the City's
drug/alcohol policies immediately after the accident. If a determination is not made
and the appropriate test is not administered within two (2) hours following the
accident, the employee's supervisor shall immediately provide written documentation
to the Human Resources Manager stating the reasons why the test was not promptly
administered.
B. Where possible, the supervisor or manager
should make every effort under the circumstances surrounding the accident to ensure
that the employee, even one who has been permitted to leave or has had to leave the
site, is available for a post -accident test. This, of course, does not mean that necessary
medical treatment for injured people should be delayed or that an employee cannot
leave the scene of an accident for the period necessary to obtain assistance in
responding to the accident, materials to secure the accident site, or necessary
emergency medical care. An employee who is seriously injured and cannot provide a
specimen within the appropriate time frames of the accident shall provide the
necessary authorization for obtaining hospital reports and other documents that
would indicate whether there were any controlled substances in his/her system.
C. If a determination is made to conduct post-
accident testing, the supervisor or manager shall provide documentation of the
accident and as to his/her decision to the Human Resources Manager within one (1)
working day of the accident.
D. The employee shall remain readily available
for such testing or may be deemed to have refused to submit to testing.
E. The supervisor or manager shall transport the
employee to the alcohol testing and/or controlled substance collection site, and if
necessary, to the employee's home after completion of the testing and collection.
F. The employee shall be placed upon
administrative leave with pay pending the outcome of the test(s).
SECTION 9: SUBSTANCEABUSE PROFESSIONAL (SAP)
SERVICES
Each employee who engages in conduct prohibited by
this Policy and Procedure shall be referred to a SAP for treatment at their own
expense.
SECTION 10: SPECIFIED PROCEDURES
Specific procedures pertaining to the subjects listed
below are attached to this Procedure as indicated
Alcohol Testing Methodology and Procedures Appendix A
Controlled Substances Testing Procedure Appendix B
Controlled Substance Testing Methodology Appendix C
Test Results Appendix D
Confidentiality and Recordkeeping Appendix E
APPENDIX A
ALCOHOL TESTING METHODOLOGYAND PROCEDURES
I. ALCOHOL TESTING METHODOLOGY
A. Breath Alcohol Technician (BAT): The City or its agent shall only utilize
a BAT who meets the stringent training requirements of the DOT or is a
law enforcement officer certified to use the EBT that is utilized.
B. Alcohol Testing Devices: The City or its agent shall only utilize an EBT
which meets the DOT requirements.
C. Quality Assurance Plan LWI The City or its agent shall ensure that
the EBT shall have a quality assurance plan developed by the
manufacturer and that said plan is complied with for each EBT used for
alcohol testing.
D. Alcohol Testing Site: Alcohol testing shall be conducted in a location
that affords visual and aural privacy to the employee being tested,
sufficient to prevent unauthorized persons from seeing or hearing test
results.
II. ALCOHOL TESTING PROCEDURES
A. Preparation for Testing_: Prior to being tested, the BAT shall require the
employee to provide a photo identification and shall explain the testing
procedure to the employee.
B. Procedures for Screening Test: The following procedures shall be
followed:
1. The BAT and the employee shall complete their respective
portions of the Breath Alcohol Testing Form from the DOT.
Refusal by the employee to sign this form shall be regarded as a
refusal to take the test.
2. An individually -sealed mouthpiece shall be opened in view of the
employee and attached to the EBT in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions.
3. The BAT shall instruct the employee to blow forcefully into the
mouthpiece for at least six (6) seconds or until the EBT
indicates that an adequate amount of breath has been
obtained.
4. a. If the EBT does not meet the DOT requirements, the BAT and
the employee shall take the following steps:
(1) Show the employee the result displayed on the EBT.
The BAT shall record the displayed result, test number,
testing device, serial number of the testing device, time and
quantified result in Step 3 of the form.
(2) Record the test number, date of the test, name of the
BAT, location, and quantified test result in the log book.
The employee shall initial the log book entry.
b. If the EBT provides a printed result, but does not print the
results directly onto the form, the BAT shall show the employee
the result displayed on the EBT. The BAT shall then affix the test
result printout to the breath alcohol test form in the designated
space, using a method that will provide clear evidence of removal
(e.g., tamper -evident tape).
c. If the EBT prints the test results directly on the form, the BAT
shall show the employee the result displayed on the EBT.
5. a. In any case in which the result of the screening test is a breath
alcohol concentration of less than 0.01, the BAT shall date the
form and sign the certification in Step 3 of the form. The
employee shall sign the certification and fill in the date in Step 4
of the form.
b. If the employee does not sign the certification in Step 4 of the
form or does not initial the log book entry for a test, it shall not be
considered a refusal to be tested. In that event, the BAT shall
note the employee's failure to sign or initial in the "Remarks"
section of the form.
c. If a test result printed by the EBT (see paragraph 4b or 4c of
this section) does not match the displayed result, the BAT shall
note the disparity in the remarks section. Both the employee and
the BAT shall initial or sign the notation. The test shall be
invalid and the City and employee shall be so advised.
d. No further testing is authorized. The BAT shall transmit the
result of less than 0.01 to the City in a confidential manner, and
the City shall receive and store the information so as to ensure
that confidentiality is maintained.
6. If the result of the screening test is an alcohol concentration of
0.01 or greater, a confirmation test shall be performed.
7. If the confirmation test will be conducted by a different BAT, the
BAT who conducts the screening test shall complete and sign the
form and log book entry. The BAT will provide the employee with
Copy 2 of the form.
C. Procedures for Confirmation Test: The following procedures shall be
followed:
1. If a BAT other than the one who conducted the screening test is
conducting the confirmation test, the new BAT shall follow the
procedures outlined above in Preparation for Testing.
2. The BAT shall instruct the employee not to eat, drink, put any
object or substance in his or her mouth, and, to the extent
possible, not belch during a waiting period before the confirmation
test. This waiting period begins with the completion of the
screening test, and shall not be less than 15 minutes. The
confirmation test shall be conducted within 20 minutes of the
completion of the screening test. The BAT shall explain to the
employee the reason for this requirement (i.e. to prevent any
accumulation of mouth alcohol leading to an artificially high
reading) and the fact that it is for the employee's benefit. The
BAT shall also explain that the test will be conducted at the end of
the waiting period, even if the employee has disregarded the
instruction. If the BAT becomes aware that the employee has not
complied with this instruction, the BAT shall so note in the
"Remarks"section of the form.
3. a. If a BAT other than the one who conducted the screening test is
conducting the confirmation test, the new BAT shall initiate a
new Breath Alcohol Testing form. The BAT shall complete Step 1
on the form. The employee shall complete Step 2 on the form,
signing the certification. Refusal by the employee to sign this
certification shall be regarded as a refusal to take the test. The
BAT shall note in the "Remarks" section of the form that a
different BAT conducted the screening test.
b. In all cases, the first three steps of the "Procedures for
Screening Test" shall be followed. A new mouthpiece shall be
used for the confirmation test.
4. Before the confirmation test is administered for each employee,
the BAT shall ensure that the EBT registers 0.00 on an air blank.
If the reading is greater than 0.00, the BAT shall conduct one
more air blank. If the reading is greater than 0.00, testing shall
not proceed using that instrument. However, testing may proceed
on another instrument.
5. Any EBT taken out of service because of failure to perform an air
blank accurately shall not be used for testing until a check of
external calibration is conducted and the EBT is found to be
within tolerance limits.
6. In the event that the screening and confirmation test results are
not identical, the confirmation test result is deemed to be the final
result upon which any action under operating administration
rules shall be based.
7. a. If the EBT provides a printed result, but does not print the
results directly onto the form, the BAT shall show the employee
the result displayed on the EBT. The BAT shall then affix the test
result printout to the breath alcohol test form in the designated
space, using a method that will provide clear evidence of removal
(e.g., tamper -evident tape).
b. If the EBT prints the test results directly onto the form, the
BAT shall show the employee the result displayed on the EBT.
8. a. Following the completion of the test, the BAT shall date the
form and sign the certification in Step 3 of the form. The
employee shall sign the certification and fill in the date in Step 4
of the form.
b. If the employee does not sign the certification in Step 4 of the
form or does not initial the log book entry for a test, it shall not be
considered a refusal to be tested. In this event, the BAT shall note
the employee's failure to sign or initial in the "Remarks" section of
the form.
c. If a test result printed by the EBT (see paragraph 7a. or 7b. of
this section) does not match the displayed result, the BAT shall
note the disparity in the remarks section. Both the employee and
the BAT shall initial or sign the notation. The test is invalid and
the City and employee shall be so advised.
d. The BAT shall conduct an air blank. If the reading is greater
than 0.00, the test is invalid.
9. a. The BAT shall transmit all results to the City in a confidential
manner. The Human Resources Manager or designee shall
receive and handle alcohol testing results in a confidential
manner. All communications by BATs to the City concerning the
alcohol testing results of employees shall be to the designated City
representative.
b. Such communication may be in writing, in person, or by
telephone or electronic means, but the BAT shall ensure
immediate communication to the City of the results that require
the City to prevent the employee from performing a safety -
sensitive function.
c. If the initial communication is not in writing, the City shall
establish a mechanism to verify the identity of the BAT providing
the information.
d. If the initial communication is not in writing, the BAT shall
follow the initial communication by providing to the City the
City's copy of the breath alcohol testing form. The City shall store
the information so as to ensure that confidentiality is maintained.
D. Refusals to Test and Uncompleted Tests
1. Refusal by an employee to complete and sign the breath alcohol
testing farm (Step 2), to provide breath, to provide an adequate
amount of breath, or otherwise to cooperate with the testing
process in a way that prevents the completion of the test, shall be
noted by the BAT in the remarks section of the form. The testing
process shall be terminated and the BAT shall immediately notify
the City.
2. If a screening or confirmation test cannot be completed, or if an
event occurs that would invalidate the test, the BAT shall, if
practicable, begin a new screening or confirmation test, as
applicable, using a new breath alcohol testing form with a new
sequential test number.
E. Inabilitv to Provide an Adequate Amount of Breath
1. This section sets forth procedures to be followed in any case in
which an employee is unable, or alleges that he or she is unable,
to provide an amount of breath sufficient to permit a valid breath
test because of a medical condition.
2. The BAT shall again instruct the employee to attempt to provide
an adequate amount of breath. If the employee refuses to make
the attempt, the BAT shall immediately inform the City.
3. If the employee attempts and fails to provide an adequate amount
of breath, the BAT shall so note in the "Remarks" section of the
breath alcohol testing form and immediately inform the City.
4. If the employee attempts and fails to provide an adequate amount
of breath, the City shall direct the employee to obtain, as soon as
practical after the attempted provision of breath, an evaluation
from the MRO concerning the employee's medical ability to
provide an adequate amount of breath.
a. If the MRO determines, in his or her reasonable medical
judgment, that a medical condition has, or with a high
degree of probability, could have, precluded the employee
from providing an adequate amount of breath, the
employee's failure to provide an adequate amount of breath
shall not be deemed a refusal to take a test. The MRO shall
provide to the City a written statement of the basis for his
or her conclusion.
b. If the MRO, in his or her reasonable medical judgment, is
unable to make the determination set forth herein, the
employee's failure to provide an adequate amount of breath
shall be regarded as a refusal to take a test. The MRO
shall provide a written statement of the basis for his or her
conclusion t o the City.
F. Invalid Tests. A breath alcohol test shall be invalid under the following
circumstances:
1. The next external calibration check of an EBT produces a result
that differs by more than the tolerance stated in the QAP from the
known value of the test standard. In this event, every test result
of 0.01 or above obtained on the device since the last valid
external calibration check shall be invalid;
2. The BAT does not observe the minimum 15 -minute waiting period
prior to the confirmation test;
3. The BAT does not perform an air blank of the EBT before a
confirmation test, or an air blank does not result in a reading of
0.00 prior to or after the administration of the test;
4. The BAT does not sign the required form;
5. The BAT has failed to note on the remarks section of the form that
the employee has failed or refused to sign the form following the
recording or printing on or attachment to the form of the test
result;
6. An EBT fails to print a confirmation test result; or
7. On a confirmation test and, where applicable, on a screening test,
the sequential test number or alcohol concentration displayed on
the EBT is not the same as the sequential test number or alcohol
concentration on the printed result.
APPENDIX B
CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES TESTING PROCEDURE
I. URINE SPECIMEN COLLECTION: The following procedures shall be
followed:
A. The actual collection site shall be a location having an enclosure with
which private urination can occur, a toilet for completion of urination,
and a suitable clean surface for writing. The site shall also have a source
of water for washing hands, which, if practicable, shall be external to the
enclosure where urination occurs.
B. The collection site shall be secure.
C. No unauthorized personnel shall be permitted in any part of the
designated collection site where urine specimens are collected or stored.
D. Collection of urine specimens shall allow individual privacy, unless there
is reason to believe that an employee may alter or substitute the
specimen provided.
E. For purposes of this section, the following circumstances are the
exclusive grounds constituting a reason to believe that the employee may
alter or substitute the specimen.
1. The employee has presented a urine specimen that falls outside
the normal temperature range 32.5°C - 37.7°C (90.5°F - 99.8°F),
and
a. The employee declines to provide a measurement of oral
body temperature; or
b. Oral body temperature varies by more than I°CII.$°F from
the temperature of the specimen;
2. The last urine specimen provided by the employee (i.e. on a
previous occasion) was determined by the laboratory to have a
specific gravity of less than 1.003 and a creatinine concentration
below .2gIL;
3. The collection site person observes conduct clearly and
unequivocally indicating an attempt to substitute or adulterate
the sample (e.g., substitute urine in plain view, blue dye in
specimen presented, etc.); or
4. The employee has previously been determined to have used a
controlled substance without medical authorization and the
particular test was being conducted under a DOT agency
regulation providing for follow-up testing upon or after return to
duty.
F. A higher-level supervisor of the collection site person, or the Human
Resources Manager, shall review and concur in advance with any
decision be a collection site person to obtain a specimen under the direct
observation of a same gender collection site person based upon the
circumstances described herein.
G. The following minimum precautions shall be taken to ensure that
unadulterated specimens are obtained and correctly identified:
1. To deter the dilution of specimens at the collection site, toilet
bluing agents shall be placed in toilet tanks wherever possible, so
the reservoir of water in the toilet bowl always remains blue.
Where practicable, there shall be no other source of water in the
enclosure where urination occurs. If there is another source of
water in the enclosure, it shall be effectively secured or monitored
to ensure it is not used as a source for diluting the specimen.
2. When an individual arrives at the collection site, the collection site
person shall ensure that the individual is positively identified as
the employee selected for testing (e.g., through presentation of
photo identification or identification by the City's representative).
If the individual's identity cannot be established, the collection
site person shall not proceed with the collection.
3. The collection site person shall ask the employee to remove any
unnecessary outer garments such as a coat or jacket that might
conceal items or substances that could be used to tamper with or
adulterate the employee's urine specimen. The collection site
person shall ensure that all personal belongings such as a purse or
briefcase remain with the outer garments. The employee may
retain his or her wallet.
4. The employee shall be instructed to wash and dry his/her hands
prior to urination.
5. After washing hands, the employee shall remain in the presence
of the collection site person and shall not have access to any water
fountain, faucet, soap dispenser, cleaning agent or any other
materials which could be used to adulterate the specimen.
6. The employee may provide his/her specimen in the privacy of a
stall or otherwise partitioned area that allows for employee
privacy. The collection site person shall provide the employee
with a specimen bottle or collection container, if applicable, for
this purpose.
7. The collection site person shall note any unusual behavior or
appearance on the urine custody and control form.
8. The collection site person shall instruct the employee to provide at
least 45 ml of urine under the split sample method of collection.
9. The donor shall urinate into a collection container or a specimen
bottle capable of holding at least 60 ml.
10. If a collection container is used, the collection site person, in the
presence of the donor, pours the urine into two specimen bottles.
Thirty (30) ml shall be poured into one bottle, to be used as the
primary specimen. At least 15ml shall be poured into the other
bottle, to be used as the split specimen.
11. If a single specimen bottle is used as a collection container, the
collection site person shall pour 30 ml of urine from the specimen
bottle into a second specimen bottle (to be used as the primary
specimen) and retain the remainder (at least 15 ml) in the
collection bottle (to be used as the split specimen).
12. Both bottles shall be shipped in a single shipping container,
together with copies I, 2, and the split specimen copy of the chain
of custody form, to the laboratory.
13. If the test result of the primary specimen is positive, the employee
may request that the MRO direct that the split specimen be tested
a the employee's expense in a different DHHS-certified laboratory
for the presence of the drugs for which a positive result was
obtained in the test of the primary specimen. The MRO shall
honor such a request if it is made within 72 hours of the employee
having been notified of a verified positive test result.
14. When the MRO informs the laboratory in writing that the
employee has requested a test of the split specimen, the laboratory
shall forward to a different DHHS-approved laboratory, the split
specimen bottle, with seal intact, a copy of the MRO request, and
the split specimen copy of the chain of custody form with
appropriate chain of custody entries.
15. The result of the test of the split specimen is transmitted by the
second laboratory to the MRO.
16. Action required by this Policy and Procedure as the result of a
positive drug test (e.g., removal from performing a safety -sensitive
function) is not stayed pending the result of the rest of the split
specimen.
17. If the result of the test of the split specimen fails to reconfirm the
presence of the drug(s) or drug metabolite(s) found in the primary
specimen, the MRO shall cancel the test, and report the
cancellation and the reasons for it to the DOT, the City, and the
employee.
18. Upon receiving the specimen from the employee, the collection site
person shall determine if it has at least 30 ml of urine for the
primary or single specimen bottle and, an additional 15 ml of
urine for the split specimen bottle. If the employee is unable to
provide such a quantity of urine, the collection site person shall
instruct the employee to drink not more than 24 ounces of fluids
and, after a period of up to two hours, again attempt to provide a
complete sample using a fresh collection container. The original
insufficient specimen shall be discarded. If the employee is still
unable to provide an adequate specimen, the insufficient specimen
shall be discarded, testing discontinued, and the City so notified.
The MRO shall refer the employee for a medical evaluation to
develop pertinent information concerning whether the employee's
inability to provide a specimen is genuine or constitutes a refusal
to test. (In pre-employment testing, if the City does not wish to
hire the employee, the MRO is not required to make such a
referral). Upon completion of the examination, the MRO shall
report his or her conclusions to the City in writing.
19. After the specimen has been provided and submitted to the
collection site person, the employee shall be allowed to wash
his/her hands.
20. Immediately after the specimen is collected, the collection site
person shall measure the temperature of the specimen. The
temperature measuring device used must accurately reflect the
temperature of the specimen and not contaminate the specimen.
The time from urination to temperature measure is critical and in
no case shall exceed 4 minutes.
21. A specimen temperature outside the range of 32.5°C - 37.7°C
(90.5°F - 99.8°F) constitutes a reason to believe that the employee
has altered or substituted the specimen. In such cases, the
employee supplying the specimen may volunteer to have his/her
oral temperature taken to provide evidence to counter the reason
to believe the employee may have altered or substituted the
specimen.
22. Immediately after the specimen is collected, the collection site
person shall also inspect the specimen to determine its color and
look for any signs of contaminates. Any unusual findings shall be
noted on the urine custody and control form.
23. All specimens suspected of being adulterated shall be forwarded to
the laboratory for testing.
24. Whenever there is reason to believe that a particular employee
has altered or substituted the specimen as described in paragraph
I.E.1., a or b, of this section, a second specimen shall be obtained
as soon as possible under the direct observation of a same gender
collection site person.
25. Both the employee being tested and the collection site person shall
keep the specimen in view at all times prior to its being sealed and
labeled. As provided below, the specimen shall be sealed (by
placement of a tamper -proof seal over the bottle cap and down the
sides of the bottle) and labeled in the presence of the employee. If
the specimen is transferred to a second bottle, the collection site
person shall request the employee to observe the transfer of the
specimen and the placement of the tamper -proof seal over the
bottle cap and down the sides of the bottle.
26. "he collection site person and the employee being tested shall be
present at the same time during the procedures outline in
paragraphs I.G. 19.-22 of this section.
27. The collection site person shall place securely on the bottle an
identification label which contains the date, the employee's
specimen number, and any other identifying information provided
or required by the City. If separate from the label, the tamper-
proof seal shall also be applied.
28. The employee shall initial the identification label on the specimen
bottle for the purpose of certifying that it is the specimen collected
from him or her.
29. The collection site person shall enter on the drug testing custody
and control form all information identifying the specimen. The
collection site person shall sign the drug testing custody and
control form certifying that the collection was accomplished
according to the applicable Federal requirements.
30. a. The employee shall be asked to read and sign a statement on
the drug testing custody and control form certifying that the
specimen identified as having been collected from him/her is in
fact the specimen he/she provided.
b. When specified by DOT agency regulation or required by the
collection site (other than an employer site) or by the laboratory,
the employee may be required to sign a consent or release form
authorizing the collection of the specimen, analysis of the
specimen for designated controlled substances, and release of the
results to the City. The employee may not be required to waive
liability with respect to negligence on the part of any person
participating in the collection, handling or analysis of the
specimen or to indemnify any person for the negligence of others.
31. The collection site person shall complete the chain of custody
portion of the drug testing custody and control form to indicate
receipt of the specimen from the employee and shall certify proper
completion of the collection.
32. The urine specimen and chain of custody form are now ready for
shipment. If the specimen is not immediately prepared for
shipment, the collection site person shall ensure that it is
appropriately safeguarded during temporary storage.
33. a. While any part of the above chain of custody procedures is
being performed, it is essential that the urine specimen and
custody documents be under the control of the involved collection
site person. If the involved collection site person leaves his/her
work station momentarily, the collection site person shall take the
specimen and drug testing custody and control form with him/her
or shall secure them. After the collection site person returns to
the work station, the custody process will continue. If the
collection site person is leaving for an extended period of time, he
or she shall package the specimen for mailing before leaving the
site.
b. The collection site person shall not leave the collection site in
the interval between the presentation of the specimen by the
employee and securement of the sample with an identifying label
bearing the employee's specimen identification number (shown on
the urine custody and control form) and seal initialed by the
employee. If it becomes necessary for the collection site person to
leave the site during this interval, the collection shall be nullified
and (at the election of the City) a new collection begun.
H. Chain -of -Custody: A chain -of -custody form shall be used for maintaining
control and accountability of each specimen from the point of collection to final
disposition of the specimen. The date and purpose shall be documented on the
form each time a specimen is handled or transferred and every individual in the
chain shall be identified. Every effort shall be made to minimize the number of
persons handling specimens.
APPENDIX C
CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE TESTING METHODOLOGY
I. APPROPRIATE LABORATORY
The City of Lodi shall utilize a DHHS certified laboratory for the processing of
all controlled substance tests. The identification of such laboratory may be
obtained by contacting the Human Resources Manager.
II . INITIAL. TEST
A. The initial test shall use an immunoassay which meets the requirements
of the Food and Drug Administration for commercial distribution. The
following cutoff levels shall be used when screening specimens to
determine whether they are negative for these five drugs or classes of
drugs:
Marijuana metabolites
100ng/ml
Cocaine metabolites
300 ng/ml
Opiate metabolites
*300 ng/ml
Phencyclidine
25 ng/ml
Amphetamines
1,OOOng/ml
*25 ng/ml if immunoassay specific for free morphine.
B. The City shall use the lowest cut-off levels permitted by the appropriate
regulatory agency. These cut off levels are subject to change by the
Department of Health and Human Services as advances in technology or
other considerations warrant identification of these substances at other
concentrations.
III. CONFIRMATORY TEST
A. All specimens identified as positive on the initial test shall be confirmed
using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) techniques at the
cutoff levels listed in this paragraph for each drug. All confirmations
shall be by quantitative analysis. Concentrations that exceed the linear
region of the standard curve shall be documented in the laboratory
record as "greater than highest standard curve value."
Marijuana metabolite' 15ng/ml
Cocaine metabolite' 150 ng/ml
Opiates:
Morphine 300 np/ TJ
Codeine 300 nglml
Phencyclidine 25 nglml
Amphetamines:
Amphetamine 500 nglml
Methamphetamine 500 nglml
Delta -9 -tetrahydrocannabinol -9 -carboxylic acid.
ZBenzoylecgonine.
B. The City shall use the lowest cut-off levels permitted by the appropriate
regulatory agency. These cutoff levels are subject to change by the
Department of Health and Human Services as advances in technology or
other considerations warrant identification of these substances at other
concentrations.
N. REPORTING OF TEST RESULTS
A. The laboratory shall report test results to the MRO within an average of
five (5) working days after receipt of the specimen by the laboratory.
Before any test result is reported (the results of initial tests,
confirmatory tests, or quality control data), it shall be reviewed and the
test certified as an accurate report by the responsible laboratory
personnel. The report shall identify the drugs/metabolites tested for,
whether positive or negative, the specimen number assigned by the City,
and drug testing laboratory specimen identification number (accession
number).
B. The laboratory shall report as negative all specimens that are negative
on the initial test or negative on the confirmatory test. Only specimens
confirmed positive shall be reported positive for a specific drug.
C. The MRO may request from the laboratory and the laboratory shall
provide quantitation of test results. The MRO shall report whether the
test is positive or negative, and may report the drug(s) for which there
was a positive test, but shall not disclose the quantitation of test results
to the City.
D. The laboratory may transmit results to the MRO by various electronic
means (for example, teleprinters, facsimile, or computer) in a manner
designed to ensure confidentiality of the information. Results may not
be provided verbally by telephone. The laboratory and City must ensure
the security of the data transmission and limit access to any data
transmission, storage, and retrieval system.
E. The laboratory shall send only to the MRO the original or a certified true
copy of the drug testing custody and control form (part 2), which, in the
case of a report positive for drug use, shall be signed (after the required
certification block) by the individual responsible for day-to-day
management of the drug testing laboratory of the individual responsible
for attesting to the validity of the test reports, and attached to which
shall be a copy of the test report.
F. The laboratory shall provide to the Human Resources Manager a
monthly statistical summary of urinalysis testing of the City's employees
and shall not include in the summary any personal identifying
information. Initial and confirmation data shall be included from test
results reported within that month. Normally this summary shall be
forwarded by registered or certified mail not more than 14 calendar days
after the end of the month covered by the summary. The summary shall
contain the following information:
1. Initial Testing:
a. Number of specimens received;
b. Number of specimens reported out; and
C. Number of specimens screened positive for:
Marijuana metabolites
Cocaine metabolites
Opiate metabolites
Phencyclidine
Amphetamine
2. Confirmatory Testing:
a. Number of specimens received for confirmation;
b. Number of specimens confirmed positive for:
Marijuana metabolites
Cocaine metabolites
Morphine, codeine
Phencyclidine
Amphetamine
Methamphetamine
Monthly reports shall not include data from which it is reasonably likely
that information about individuals' test can be readily inferred. If
necessary, in order to prevent the disclosure of such data, the laboratory
shall not send a report until data are sufficiently aggregated to make
such an inference unlikely. In any month in which a report withheld for
the reason, the laboratory will so inform the employer in writing.
G. Unless otherwise instructed by the City in writing, all records pertaining
to a given urine specimen shall be retained by the drug testing
laboratory for a minimum of 2 years.
V. SPECIMEN RETENTION
Long-term storage (-20°C or less) ensures that positive urine specimens will be
available for any necessary retest during administrative or disciplinary
proceedings. Drug testing laboratories shall retain and place in properly
secured long-term frozen storage for a minimum of two (2) years all specimens
confirmed positive, in their original labeled specimen bottles. Within this two-
year period, the employer may request the laboratory to retain the specimen for
an additional period of time, but if no such request is received the laboratory
may discard the specimen after the end of two (2) years, except that the
laboratory shall be required to maintain any specimens known to be under
legal challenge for an indefinite period.
APPENDIX D
TEST RESULTS
I. MEDICAL REVIEW OFFICER (MRO) DUTIES AND QUALIFICATIONS
A. An essential part of the drug testing program is the final review of
confirmed positive results from the laboratory. A positive test result
does not automatically identify an employee/applicant as having used
drugs in violation of this Policy and Procedure. An individual with a
detailed knowledge of possible alternate medical explanations is
essential to the review of results. The review shall be performed by the
MRO prior to the transmission of the results to the City.
B. The role of the MRO is to review and interpret confirmed positive test
results obtained through the employer's testing program. The MRO
review shall include review of the chain of custody to ensure that it is
complete and sufficient on its face. If the MRO finds that the
documentation is unsatisfactory or if the information gives reasonable
doubt about the lab analysis, the MRO may:
1. Request laboratory records regarding the specimen to see if
correct procedures were followed; andlor
2. Require a re -analysis of a specimen for accuracy or validity
of the positive result. The MRO is the only one authorized
to order a re -analysis of the original sample.
The MRO shall examine alternate medical explanations for any positive
test result. This action may include conducting a medical interview and
review of the individual's medical history and any other relevant
biomedical information.
11. POSITIVE TEST RESULTS
A. Prior to making a final decision to verify a positive test result for an
individual, the MRO shall give the employee an opportunity to discuss
the test result with him/her.
B. The MRO shall contact the individual directly, on a confidential basis, to
determine whether the employee wishes to discuss the test result. A
staff person under the MRO's supervision may make the initial contact,
and a medically licensed or certified staff person may gather information
from the employee. Except as provided in paragraph II.E. of this section,
test;
the MRO shall talk directly with the employee before verifying a test as
positive.
C. If, after making all reasonable efforts and documenting them, the MRO
is unable to reach the individual directly, the MRO shall contact a
designated City official who shall direct the individual to contact the
MRO as soon as possible. If it becomes necessary to reach the individual
through the designated management official, the designated
management official shall employ procedures that ensure, to the
maximum extent practicable, the requirement that the employee contact
the MRO is held in confidence.
D. If, after making all reasonable efforts, the designated City official is
unable to contact the employee, the City may place the employee on
leave without pay.
E. The MRO may verify a test as positive without having communicated
directly with employee about the test in three circumstances:
1. The employee expressly declines the opportunity to discuss the
2. The designated City representative has successfully made and
documented a contact with the employee and instructed the
employee to contact the MRO, and more than five (5) days have
passed since the date the employee was successfully contacted by
the designated City representative; or
3. Other circumstances provided for in DOT agency drug testing
regulations.
F. If a test is verified positive under the circumstances specified in
paragraphs II.E.1-3, of this section, the employee may present to the
MRO information documenting that serious illness, injury, or other
circumstances unavoidable prevented the employee from timely
contacting the MRO. The MRO, on the basis of such information, may
reopen the verification, allowing the employee to present information
concerning a legitimate explanation frac the Confirmed positive test. If
the MRO concludes that there is a legitimate explanation, the MRO
declares the test to be negative.
G. Following verification of a positive test result, the MRO shall refer the
employee to the City's employee assistance program and notify the City's
Risk Manager of the test results.
III. VERIFICATION FOR OPIATES: REVIEW FOR PRESCRIPTION
MEDICATION
A. Before the MRO verifies a confirmed positive result for opiates, he/she
shall determine that there is clinical evidence, in addition to the urine
test, of unauthorized use of any opium, opiate, or opium derivative (e•g•,
morphine/codeine). (This requirement does not apply if the City's
GUMS confirmation testing for opiates confirms the presence of 6-
monocetylmorphine.)
B. The MRO shall notify each employee who has a confirmed positive test
that the employee has 72 hours in which to request a test of the split
specimen, if the test is verified as positive. If the employee requests an
analysis of the split specimen within 72 hours of having been informed of
a verified positive test, the MRO shall direct, in writing, the laboratory to
provide the split specimen to another DHHS-certified laboratory for
analysis. If the analysis of the split specimen fails to reconfirm the
presence of the drug(s) or drug metabolite(s) found in the primary
specimen, or if the split specimen is unavailable, inadequate for testing
or untestable, the MRO shall cancel the test and report cancellation and
the reasons for it to the DOT, the City, and the employee.
C. If an employee has not contacted the MRO within 72 hours, the
employee may present to the MRO information documenting that serious
illness, injury, inability to contact the MRO, lack of actual notice of the
verified positive test, or other circumstances unavoidably prevented the
employee from timely contacting the MRO. If the MRO concludes that
there is a legitimate explanation for the employee's failure to contact the
MRO within 72 hours, the MRO shall direct that the reanalysis of the
primary specimen or analysis of the split specimen, as applicable, be
performed.
IV. DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION
A. Except as provided in this paragraph, the MRO shall not disclose to any
third party medical information provided by the individual to the MRO
as part of the testing verification process.
B. The MRO may disclose such information to the City, a DOT agency or
other Federal safety agency, or a physician responsible for determining
the medical qualification of the employee under an applicable DOT
agency regulation, as applicable, only if -
1 .
f
1. An applicable DOT regulation permits or requires such disclosure;
2. In the MRO's reasonable medical judgment, the information could
result in the employee being determined to be medically
unqualified under an applicable DOT agency rule; or
3. In the MRO's reasonable medical judgment, in a situation in
which there is no DOT agency rule establishing physical
qualification standards applicable to the employee, the
information indicates that continued performance by the employee
of his/her safety -sensitive function could pose a significant safety
risk.
C. Before obtaining medical information from the employee as part of the
verification process, the MRO shall inform the employee that
information may be disclosed to third parties as provided in this
paragraph and the identity of any parties to whom information may be
disclosed.
APPENDIX E
CONFIDENTIALITYAND RECORDKEEPING
L CONFIDENTIALITYAND ACCESS TO RECORDS
A. Laboratory reports or test results shall not appear in an
employee's general personnel file. Information of this nature will
be contained in a separate confidential medical file that will be
securely kept under the control of the Human Resources Manager.
The reports or test results shall be disclosed to City management
on a strictly need -to -know basis and to the tested employee upon
request. Disclosures, without consent, may also occur when:
1. the information is compelled by law or by judicial or
administrative process;
2. the information has been placed at issue in a formal
dispute between the City and employee;
3. the information is to be used in administering an
employee benefit plan; or
4 the information is needed by medical personnel for
the diagnosis or treatment of the patient who is
unable to authorize disclosure.
B. Except as required by law or expressly authorized or required in
this section, the City shall not release driver information that is
contained in records required to be maintained by this Policy and
Procedure.
C. An employee is entitled, upon written request, to obtain copies of
any records pertaining to the employee's use of alcohol or
controlled substances including any records pertaining to his/her
alcohol or controlled substances tests. The City shall promptly
provide the records requested by the employee.
D. The City shall make available copies of all results for City alcohol
and/or controlled substances testing conducted under the Policy
and Procedure and any other information pertaining to the City's
alcohol misuse and/or controlled substances use prevention
program, when requested by the Secretary of Transportation, any
DOT agency, or any State or local officials with regulatory
authority over the City.
E. When requested by the National Transportation Safety Board as
part of an accident investigation, the City shall disclose
information related to the City's administration of a post -accident
alcohol and/or controlled substance test administered following
the accident under investigation.
F. Records shall be made available to a subsequent employer upon
receiving a written request from a former employee. Disclosure by
the subsequent employer is permitted only as expressly
authorized by the terms of the former employee's request.
G. The City may disclose information required to be maintained
under this Policy and Procedure pertaining to an employee, the
decision maker in a lawsuit, grievance, or other proceeding
initiated by or on behalf of the individual, and arising from the
results of an alcohol and/or controlled substance test administered
under this part, or from the City's determination that the
employee engaged in conduct prohibited by this Policy and
Procedure (including, but not limited to, a workers' compensation,
unemployment compensation, or other proceeding relating to a
benefit sought by the employee).
H. The City shall release information regarding an employee's
records as directed by the specific, written consent of the employee
authorizing release of the information to an identified person.
Release of such information by the person receiving the
information is permitted only in accordance with the terms of the
employee's consent.
II. MAINTENANCE AND RETENTION OF RECORDS
A. General Requirement The City shall maintain records of its
alcohol misuse and controlled substances use prevention programs
as provided in this section. Such records will be maintained
confidentially and separate from employee personnel files.
B. Period of Retention: The City shall maintain the records in
accordance with the following schedule:
1. Five (5) years. The following records shall be maintained
for a minimum of five (5)years:
a. Records of employee alcohol test results with results
indicating an alcohol concentration of 0.01 or
greater,
b. Records of employee verified positive controlled
substances test results,
C. Documentation of refusals to take required alcohol
and/or controlled substances tests,
d. Calibration documentation,
e. Employee evaluation and referrals shall be
maintained for a minimum of five (5)years, and
f. A copy of each annual calendar year summary.
2. Two Years. Records related to the alcohol and controlled
substances collection process (except calibration of
evidential breath testing devices) and training shall
maintained for a minimum of two (2) years.
3. One vear. Records of negative and canceled controlled
substances test results and alcohol test results with a
concentration of less than 0.01 shall be maintained for a
minimum of one (bear.
C. Tunes of Records: The following specific records shall be
maintained:
1. Records related the collection process:
a. Collection logbooks, if used;
b. Documents relating to the random selection process;
C. Calibration documentation for evidential breath
testing
devices;
d. Documentation of breath alcohol technician training;
e. Documents generated in connection with decisions to
administer reasonable suspicion alcohol or controlled
substances tests;
f. Documents generated in connection with decisions
on post -accident tests;
g. Documents verifying existence of a medical
explanation other inability of a covered employee to
provide adequate breath or to provide a urine
specimen for testing; and
h. Consolidated annual calendar year summaries.
Procedure.
2. Records related to an employee's results:
a. The City's copy of the alcohol test form, including the
results of the test;
b. The City's copy of the controlled substances test
chain of custody and control form;
C. Documents sent by the MRO to the City;
d. Documents related to the refusal of any employee to
submit to an alcohol or controlled substances test
required by this Policy and Procedure; and
e. Documents presented by an employee to dispute the
result of an alcohol or controlled substances test
administered under this Policy and Procedure.
3. Records related to other violations of this Policy and
4. Records related to evaluations:
a. Records pertaining to a determination by a
substance abuse professional concerning an
employee's need for assistance; and
b. Records concerning an employee's compliance with
recommendations of the substance abuse
professional.
5. Records related to education and training:
a. Materials on alcohol misuse and controlled
substance use awareness, including a copy of the
City's Policy of alcohol misuse and controlled
substance use;
b. Documentation of compliance with the requirement
to establish this Policy and Procedure, including the
employee's signed receipt of education materials;
C. Documentation of training provided to supervisors
for the purpose of qualifying the supervisors to make
a determination concerning the need for alcohol
and/or controlled substances testing based on
reasonable suspicion; and
d. Certification that any training conducted under this
part complies with the requirements for such
training.
6. Records related to drug testing:
a. Agreements with collection site facilities,
laboratories, medical review officers, and consortia;
b. Names and positions of officials and their role in the
City's alcohol and controlled substances testing
program(s);
C. Monthly laboratory statistical summaries of
urinalysis; and
d. The City's drug testing policy and procedures.