As we've had a recent round of random drug tests I wanted to remind everyone of some of the rights they are afforded during the tests.
You shall be offered a rep prior to engaging in the entire process of testing. If a rep is not available (think mid shift) you still must take the test. Refusal to take a test is recorded as a testing failure. If you want or accept a rep, nothing begins until your rep arrives. Don't let them rush you or act as if it's unnecessary. Don't let management discourage you from a rep because they want to hurry through the list. We strongly recommend that you ask for a rep every time if they don't initially offer one to you..
Every BUE is entitled to a confidential test. That means that no one else should be in the testing area other than the site coordinator, testers and the rep. This isn't optional. Management must ensure confidentiality at the testing site and in the building (ie no paging someone and saying "Report to the East/West room for a drug test" over the loud speakers).
Every BUE that asks for or accepts a rep is entitled to 10 min before AND after with said rep to discuss the test. What that will look like is we will go over a checklist so you know what the test should be like and then we will review and fill out the checklists afterward to note what actually happened during the test. Here's a sample: Drug Checklist
Please accept the offer for a rep or ask for one if they forget every time you're tested. It's not an inconvenience or an overreaction. It's you're right. We want to help ensure that you are tested correctly.
If you have any questions you can go to the Drug and Alcohol tab in the member's portion of the natca.org page or talk to myself or Troy.
Alex Navarro III