Understanding the Impact of Marijuana on Fleet Safety & Compliance

Since January 6, 2020, statistics from the FMCSA show that over 60% of positive drug tests stem from marijuana use. These statistics can highlight a fleet's challenges in maintaining fleet safety and ensuring compliance with federal regulations.

Dilute Specimen Reports

 According to the FMCSA data, there have also been 10,365 reports of dilute specimens between 2020 and 2023, with 2,500 cases in 2023 alone. Understanding the symptoms of marijuana use can help you identify drivers that are under the influence of marijuana.

Regulation 382.307: Reasonable Suspicion Testing

Under FMCSA regulation 382.307, a reasonable suspicion test can be performed if an employer suspects a driver is under the influence. Reasonable suspicion tests must stem from specific, contemporaneous, articulable observations concerning a driver's appearance, behavior, speech, or body odors. Such observations are important in identifying not only active drug use but also withdrawal symptoms that might impair a driver's ability to operate safely. In order to direct a driver to undergo a reasonable suspicion test, the supervisor must be trained and certified in accordance with the requirements outlined in 49 CFR 382.

Key symptoms of Cannabinoid (Marijuana) use include:

·   Euphoria

·   relaxed inhibitions

·   Increased appetite

·   disoriented behavior

·   the smell of burnt marijuana on breath or clothing

·   nervousness

Non-Observed Conditions and Company Policy

It's important to note that for DOT reasonable suspicion tests, observations must be made directly by the certified supervisor in accordance with the FMCSRs. Remember, you can consider utilizing non-DOT regulated testing in accordance with drug-free workplace requirements and in accordance with company policies if you suspect drug use that does not comply with FMCSR testing requirements. However, remember to use a non-federal chain of custody form.

How LEC, LLC Can Assist Your Fleet

At LEC, LLC, we recognize the challenges that come with maintaining a drug-free environment and the complexities of adhering to DOT regulations. We offer comprehensive services to help your fleet develop, implement, and maintain effective drug and alcohol testing programs. We can assist in drafting customized policy manuals tailored to meet both federal guidelines and your specific operational needs.

For more information on how we can help you enhance fleet safety and ensure compliance, visit our website at www.lecsafety.com. Together, we can work towards a safer and more compliant driving environment.