In the world of drug testing services, precision is of paramount importance. One small error during any stage of the testing process, especially during specimen collection, can significantly affect the test results and consequently the lives of both employers and employees. As a top-tier provider of Drug Testing Services, Tom Allen Enterprises Inc. understands the complexities of the process and the crucial role that accurate specimen collection plays.
WhyIs Specimen Collection So Important?
Specimen collection serves as the first step in the drug testing process. The accuracy, reliability, and validity of drug testing results depend heavily on the meticulousness of the specimen collection process. Even with the most advanced drug testing technology at our disposal, a poorly collected specimen can lead to tests that have been canceled by the MRO due to collection error. Hence, understanding how to properly collect, handle, and store specimens is crucial.
What Is Involved in the Specimen Collection Process?
The specimen collection process can vary depending on whether the test is a Drug Testing or Alcohol Testing, and if it’s a DOT or Non-DOT drug test. For Drug Testing Services like ours, the procedure usually involves the following steps:
1. Preparation: The collection site is prepared, and the donor is checked for any substances or items that could adulterate the sample.
2. Collection: The donor provides the specimen under controlled conditions to ensure integrity.
3. Storage and transportation: The specimen is correctly sealed, labeled, and transported under appropriate conditions to the testing laboratory.
At Tom Allen Enterprises Inc., our nationwide network of collection and testing sites ensures that all these steps are executed in line with the regulations set out by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Mitigating Errors and Ensuring Compliance
Adhering to stringent DOT Compliance Testing guidelines, we take steps to mitigate the risk of errors during the specimen collection process. These measures include using trained and certified collectors who follow strict protocols. Additionally, our collectors employ the Custody and Control Form (CCF), a document that tracks the custody and control of a specimen from the moment it is collected until it is reported out, ensuring an unbroken chain of custody. Furthermore, we conduct specimen collection in compliance with regulations such as the 49CFR Part 40, Subpart E.
The Role of the Medical Review Officer
The Medical Review Officer (MRO) plays a pivotal role in the final verification of drug testing results. After the laboratory completes testing, the results are reviewed by the MRO, who verifies the integrity of the test results and rules out any legitimate medical explanations for positive, adulterated, substituted, or invalid results. The MRO is also responsible for collector training when a specimen collection is canceled due to a collector error.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the complexities of specimen collection and the significant impact it can have on drug testing results is crucial in maintaining a drug-free workplace. As a trusted Third Party Administrator for Drug Testing, Tom Allen Enterprises Inc. strives to offer the highest standard of drug and alcohol testing services, ensuring accuracy andintegrity from specimen collection through to result reporting. With a focus on reliability, speed, and convenience, we aim to support you in fostering a safe, healthy, and compliant working environment.