Services
Workplace drug screening programs with a nationwide collection network. DOT-compliant and non-DOT testing for pre-employment, random programs, and post-accident scenarios.
Urine, oral fluid, and hair testing. MRO review included. Fees passed through at cost.
Testing methods
Different methods detect drug use over different time windows. The right method depends on the reason for testing, the substances screened, and organizational policy.
Most common method for workplace screening. Detects recent use (1-3 days for most substances, longer for marijuana). Fast results and cost-effective. Detection window: 1-3 days, 3-30 days for marijuana.
Non-invasive collection with observed donor. Detects very recent use and is harder to adulterate than urine. Good for post-accident and reasonable suspicion. Detection window: 24-48 hours.
Detects drug use over a longer period but cannot determine timing or frequency. Often used for pre-employment where long-term history matters. Detection window: 90 days.
Panels
Panels determine which substances are tested. Standard panels cover the most common drugs of abuse; custom panels address specific risks or compliance requirements.
| Panel | Substances tested | Common usage |
|---|---|---|
| 5-Panel | Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP | DOT-required standard and most common pre-employment panel |
| 10-Panel | 5-panel + Benzodiazepines, Barbiturates, Methadone, Propoxyphene, Quaaludes | Extended non-DOT panel for broader coverage |
| Expanded Opiates | Adds synthetic opioids (Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Oxymorphone) | Addresses prescription opioid misuse not detected in standard panels |
| Custom Panels | Configurable based on industry, role, or organizational policy | Tailored screening for specific risk profiles or compliance requirements |
DOT vs Non-DOT
DOT-regulated employers (transportation, aviation, transit, railroad, pipeline, maritime) must follow federal testing requirements. Non-DOT employers have more flexibility in program design.
| Aspect | DOT testing | Non-DOT testing |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory authority | Mandated by DOT for safety-sensitive positions (FMCSA, FAA, FTA, FRA, PHMSA, USCG) | Voluntary employer policy or state-specific requirements |
| Testing panel | Strict 5-panel only. Cannot add or remove substances. | Flexible: 5-panel, 10-panel, or custom. Employer chooses. |
| Collection process | Strict chain of custody, DOT-certified collectors, Federal CCF required | Standard chain of custody, less rigid but still defensible |
| MRO review | Mandatory for all results | Optional but strongly recommended for defensibility |
| Cutoff levels | Federal cutoff levels (non-negotiable) | Employer can set levels (typically follow SAMHSA guidelines) |
When you configure a position as DOT safety-sensitive, PSBI applies the correct requirements automatically: 5-panel only, DOT-certified sites, proper forms, mandatory MRO review, and compliant random rates by agency. For non-DOT positions, you define the panel and rules; PSBI handles the logistics.
When to test
Testing can be triggered at different points in the employment lifecycle. Each scenario serves a different purpose and has different procedural requirements.
Screen candidates before hire to reduce workplace risk, meet insurance requirements, or comply with industry regulations. The most common trigger.
Test after workplace incidents, injuries, or vehicle accidents to determine if substance use was a contributing factor. Often required by workers' comp or DOT.
Test when a supervisor observes behavior consistent with impairment. Requires trained observers and documented observations.
Ongoing deterrent testing with unannounced selection from a defined pool. Required for DOT positions; optional but effective for non-DOT.
Required before an employee returns to work after a positive test or policy violation. Part of a structured substance abuse program.
Scheduled tests after return to duty as part of ongoing monitoring, typically 6-12 months of unannounced follow-up testing.
Results
Medical Review Officer (MRO) review is the final step. The MRO evaluates positive and adulterated results for a legitimate medical explanation before reporting to the employer.
Typically returned within 24-48 hours of collection. If no substances are detected above cutoff levels, the result is reported as negative. No MRO review required.
Lab-positive results go to the MRO, who contacts the donor about legitimate medical reasons. If no valid explanation, the MRO reports positive. Adds 1-3 business days.
If the specimen was tampered with or substituted, the MRO reviews the findings and may require a retest under direct observation or report a refusal to test.
Pricing
Costs include the PSBI service fee, lab analysis fees, and collection site fees, and vary by testing method, panel configuration, and collection network.
Related services
DOT-compliant and non-DOT random selection, scheduling, and documentation. Automated pools and audit-ready records.
Learn more →DOT physicals, fit-for-duty exams, respirator fit testing, and other services that complement drug screening.
Learn more →Real people
PSBI is owner-operated and US-based, screening organizations since 1995. Questions about panels, collection sites, or DOT random rates reach a specialist, not a ticket queue.
FCRA-compliantOwner-operated since 1995Based in Ashland, WIGet started
Tell us your positions, testing scenarios, and whether you're DOT-regulated. We'll scope the panels, collection network, and program rules that fit.
