What is a Non-DOT Physical Exam?

Non-DOT physical is a set of tests that determine work performance capability or assess the worker’s readiness to return to work. Many employers do this test for their employees to know if they are ready to perform their duties. These physical exams may have different names, such as work fitness assessment, fitness-for-duty examination, and pre-employment physicals.

Non-DOT Physical Exams include:

  • Medical history review
  • Prescription Medication Review
  • Height, weight, & vital signs
  • Urinalysis – Glucose test for diabetes
  • Heart/Lungs
  • Vision test
  • Drug & Alcohol Screening Test
  • Other possible tests, as requested by the employer
Occupational Tests and Screens

What are the Types of Non-DOT Drug Tests?

Types of Non-DOT drug tests include:

Pre-Employment Tests

Many organizations require newly hired employees to pass a drug test before they begin to work. This test helps determine employers to keep habitual users out of their workforce.

 

Random Testing

These tests are done monthly, quarterly, or yearly, depending on the employer’s needs. A computer program randomly chooses names. This testing impedes drug use since they don’t know when they’ll be tested.

 

Post-accident Tests

These tests are often done after fatal accidents, as the employer should know if the person was under the influence.

 

Suspicion Tests

The employer has hired supervisors to spot suspicious behaviors. These tests are only done if there are reasons or evidence that an employee is under the influence.

 

Return to duty Tests.

If an employee returns to work after a positive drug test result, you can test them once more to ensure they’re no longer using.

 

Follow-up Tests

If an employee returns to work after doing a return-to-duty drug test, follow-up testing can be done over the next year to ensure they are no longer using. This might require different screens.

 

DOT vs. Non-DOT Testing: What’s the Difference?

DOT physical exams include checkups conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for commercial vehicle drivers. Employers in various industries can perform non-DOT physical tests. Non-DOT companies can design and implement tests based on their needs and conditions, while DOT organizations must follow the determined guidelines. Even non-DOT companies can choose not to test at all.

 

Employer’s Right for Non-DOT Physical Exams

Tests should be performed equally for all applicants. Employees have a right to know the outcome of these examinations. Although these tests take a complete history of employees to make the necessary assessments, the employer does not have the right to have all the information. Only the general conclusions of the test as to whether the employee can do the work are communicated to the employer. Many states also impose strict restrictions on the information a physician may disclose to an insurance company or employer without the worker’s consent.

 

What does a Non-DOT drug test for?

Apart from DOT regulations, non-DOT organizations can use different drug tests to test a broader range of drugs than the DOT physical exam. These examinations can be performed on various samples, including saliva, hair, breath, and sweat.

The level of these drugs is measured in the samples:

  • Amphetamines
  • Methamphetamines
  • Cannabinoids
  • Cocaine
  • Opiates
  • Methadone
  • Phencyclidine
  • Barbiturates
  •  Benzodiazepines
  •  Propoxyphene

 

How to Prepare for a Non-DOT Physical Exam

To ensure a successful non-DOT physical exam, you must prepare for your appointment correctly. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
1. Dress comfortably: Wear loose-fitting clothing that is easy to remove and allows for a full range of motion.
2. Bring a list of medications: Make a list of any medications, supplements, or vitamins you are currently taking and bring it to your appointment.
3. Get a good night’s sleep: Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep the night before your exam to help ensure you are well-rested.
4. Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Avoid consuming caffeine or alcohol for at least 24 hours before your exam, as these substances can affect your blood pressure and heart rate.

Following these tips can help ensure a smooth and successful non-DOT physical exam.

 

The results of the Non-DOT Physical Exam

After completing the physical test, the qualified healthcare provider discusses the results with the tested person. If any potential health issues or concerns were identified, the healthcare provider may provide recommendations for further evaluation or treatment.

The results of your non-DOT physical exam are also shared with your employer. This report may include information about your medical history, vital signs, and any performed tests or evaluations. This information will help your employer determine your fitness for work and ensure compliance with applicable regulations or standards.

 

Non-DOT Physical Near Me

Business owners in Las Vegas can contact Southern Nevada Occupational Health Center specialists to make an appointment for a range of physical exams for their employees. For more information about this center’s services, refer to the list at the top.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Non-DOT Physical Exams

What is a non-DOT physical exam?
Non-DOT physical is a set of tests that determine work performance capability or assess the worker’s readiness to return to work.

What is the difference between a DOT physical exam and a non-DOT physical exam?

A DOT physical exam is a medical examination required by the Department of Transportation for individuals in safety-sensitive positions, such as commercial truck drivers. Federal agencies do not regulate a non-DOT physical exam, which is typically required for employees who work in non-safety-sensitive jobs.

What does a non-DOT drug test look for?
Non-DOT organizations can use different drug tests to test a broader range of drugs than the DOT physical exam.

10 Comments

  1. jow says:

    Went in for a non dot drug test, very easy. The staff was extremely professional.

  2. ds.20 says:

    Dr. Nicknam is very nice, he always comes to greet his patients to see how they are doing/feeling.

  3. Dave says:

    I’m a driver, what will non-DOT check for me?

  4. Brittany says:

    In addition to hair and saliva testing, are any further tests needed?

    • support says:

      Hello there. Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. According to your condition, you may need further tests such as urine testing as well.

  5. Viraj Vartak says:

    What does a U/A dip in a Non-DOT physical include? What is the standard protocol with U/A dip when part of a Non-DOT physical include

    • support says:

      Hello there.
      Thanks for leaving a comment on our website. A standard non-DOT physical exam may include saliva, hair, breath, or sweat testing. Then, according to the regulations, the medical examiner makes the employee aware of their condition, in addition to sharing the result with the employer.

  6. Brian says:

    The employer asked me to take the test here and It was fine.

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