The team at Sky Drug Test is always monitoring the agencies for new rules and policies that have a direct impact on DOT regulated employees and employers. U.S. DOT Part 40 Final Rule is covered here.

The primary topic of U.S. DOT Part 40 Final Rule are the following:

Semi-Synthetic Opioids

• Hydrocodone
• Oxycodone
• Hydromorphone
• Oxymorphone

For DOT covered employees as of January 1, 2018, the DOT covered employees will now be tested for the four semi-synthetic opioids listed above. Some common names that these semi-synthetic opioids may be called, OxyContin®, Percodan®, Percocet®, Vicodin®, Lortab®, Norco®, Dilaudid®, Exalgo®.

For workplace and employers what does this mean and how does it affect them.

Some common risks of opioid use are:

• Opioids are dangerously addictive
• Absenteeism and lost productivity
• Impairment and injury
• Effects on brain regions

The staff at Sky Drug Testing knows it is important for employees to be fully aware of their employer’s drug and alcohol policy. This policy is there to potentially prevent drug or alcohol impairment at the workplace. This is so that each employee can make it home safely at the end of every workday.

“The opioid crisis is a threat to public safety when it involves
safety-sensitive employees involved in the operation of any kind
 of vehicle or transport,” 
Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao said
when the final rule was published in November. 
“The ability to test for a broader range of opioids
 will advance transportation safety significantly
 and provide another deterrence to opioid abuse, 
which will better protect the public and ultimately save lives.”