To satisfy the physical portion of the examination, the IRC uses the approved DOT form to assist in determining whether an individual is medically qualified. The examinee must satisfy all portions of the exam in accordance with set standards.

In January of 1996, the federal government, in cooperation with the Department of Transportation, passed legislation affecting all areas of the drug screening process. Specific regulations dictate the type of lab, collection area, drug panel, transmission and review procedures.

The IRC utilizes only reference labs, accredited by the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). All urine collection procedures comply with regulations for the Department of Transportation and are performed in a highly controlled environment.

The screening program required by regulation is limited to the following five panel drug profile: Amphetamines, Cannabinoids, Cocaine, Opiates and Phencyclidine. All Drug screens are reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) to ensure accuracy of procedure and results. Positive drug screens are automatically confirmed by gas chromatography (GC/MS), the most reliable confirmation method available.

Alcohol tests are performed using screening and evidential testing devises approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). DOT tests, whether alcohol or drug tests, are performed in accordance with the regulatory requirements of the DOT for such testing, including all applicable procedural, personnel and equipment requirements.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) federally mandates that all companies employing over-the-road drivers must establish a random drug and alcohol screening program. Fifty percent of drivers must be randomly screened for drug abuse and ten percent of drivers must be randomly screened for alcohol abuse each year.

The IRC offers a computer-generated DOT Consortium, which randomly selects names on a monthly basis in compliance with the above DOT regulations for drug and alcohol screening.

Documentation is provided for participants in the program supporting their compliance with DOT regulations for random drug and alcohol screenings in the event of a DOT audit.

The IRC offers an annual DOT Supervisory Training program. This program identifies warning signs that may indicate alcohol and drug misuse. It also covers types of drug and alcohol testing and DOT regulations for testing procedures.