As a transportation industry employer, DOT regulations mandate a drug and alcohol testing program for safety. Understanding two crucial roles, the Designated Employer Representative (DER) and the Third Party Administrator (TPA), is essential for program management. Let's explore these roles.
What is a DER?
A DER is an employee designated to manage your drug and alcohol testing program. Their duties include:
· Removing employees from safety-critical roles for violations or positive tests.
· Receiving results and communications from service agents.
· Ensuring mandatory random testing for relevant employees.
· Keeping records confidentially.
· Ensuring compliance with DOT rules by service agents.
Employer can act as the DER or choose an employee for this role. Outsourcing this to a service agent or "DER-for-hire" is not permitted. The DER must have direct decision-making authority.
What is a TPA?
A TPA offers various services related to your drug and alcohol testing program, including:
· Creating and implementing a drug-free workplace policy.
· Coordinating the testing process, from scheduling to lab specimen handling.
· Managing random testing pool selection.
· Providing training on drug and alcohol issues.
· Assisting with compliance audits and inspections.
While a TPA can provide extensive support, it cannot serve as a DER. You remain responsible for program decisions and DOT rule compliance.
Suggested: What services goMDnow as C/TPA provide?
How DER and TPA are different?
· DER is an in-house employee, while TPA is an external service agent.
· DER has decision-making authority, TPA offers supportive services.
· DER handles employee removal for violations; TPA coordinates testing.
· DER directly receives results; TPA may act as an intermediary.
· DER ensures service agent compliance; TPA adheres to DOT rules itself.
Must Read: Can an employer appoint any TPA as DER?
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Visit goMDnow: Your Dedicated TPA Partner for random drug testing and RTD program. Contact us today to optimize your benefits and enhance employee well-being.
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