Back to Basics for Urine Collectors
Your Role as a DOT-Regulated Urine Drug Test Collector
As a collector for DOT-regulated urine drug tests, you play an important and vital role. Doing your job correctly means: “Do it right the first time and every time.”
Avoid the trap of developing bad habits or cutting corners just because collections become routine over time. Instead, focus on each and every step, as completing those steps accurately is critical to ensuring transportation safety. Maintain professionalism by “Do it right the first time and every time.”
Being a professional means treating the employee with respect and performing collections properly. Employees are simply trying to complete the process—and it’s your responsibility to help them succeed by “Do it right the first time and every time.”
Key Collection Guidelines
- Ensure the collection site is secure (no access to water and remove anything an employee could use to cheat the test).
- Check the employee’s photo ID.
- Clearly explain each step of the collection process to the employee.
- Make sure the employee didn’t bring anything that could be used to tamper with the test. Have them empty their pockets, and—aside from their wallet—do not allow anything into the bathroom (e.g., no outerwear, bags, or personal belongings).
- Confirm that the correct DOT agency is identified in Step 1 of the CCF (Custody and Control Form).
- Open the sealed collection cup in the presence of the employee.
- Check the specimen for:
- Sufficient volume (45 mL)
- Appropriate temperature (90–100°F)
- Unusual color, odor, or signs of adulteration.
- Always collect a split specimen from a single void:
- 30 mL for Bottle A
- 15 mL for Bottle B
Do not combine multiple voidsto meet volume requirements.
- Never let unsealed specimens leave your or the employee’s line of sight.
- In the employee’s presence, seal both bottles and have them initial the seals.
- Verify that the seals are intact after the employee initials them.
- Double-check that all applicable sections of the CCF are completed by both you and the employee.
Sequence of completion: Steps 1, 2, 3, 5, 4. - Ship sealed specimens and the CCF to the appropriate HHS-certified lab within 24 hours or the next business day.
- Transmit copies of the CCF to the MRO and employer within the same timeframe.
- Document thoroughly in the REMARKS section when necessary. The more detail, the better—especially for unusual or problematic collections.
Important Reminders
- If an employee doesn’t show up for a pre-employment test, it may not be considered a refusal. Simply notify the employer that the employee was a no-show.
- If the employee’s actions suggest a refusal to test, notify the employer. The employer will make the final determination.
- Complete and respond to any laboratory or MRO request for Memorandum for the Record (MFRs) within the timeframe required.