Alcohol and drugs are an ever-present concern in many workplaces, and employers must ensure that their employees are not impaired while performing their duties. A DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technician (STT) is an important part of this process. STTs provide employers with the necessary information to assess their employees’ sobriety and ensure that they are fit to work safely and responsibly.
FAA training and certification for DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technicians are required to provide these services. The FAA requires that technicians have the necessary knowledge and skills to evaluate the effects of alcohol or drug use on an employee’s ability to perform job duties safely.
This guide will cover all aspects of becoming a DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technician, including the education and training requirements, FAA certification process, job duties and responsibilities, compensation and benefits, and career outlook.
Education and Training Requirements
The FAA requires that DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technicians have a high school diploma or GED and specialized field training. This usually consists of at least 40 hours of classroom instruction, including instruction on alcohol and drug use evaluation techniques, safety procedures, electronic breath-testing equipment maintenance, and other related topics.
In addition to classroom instruction, technicians must complete a hands-on training course administered by the FAA. This course covers conducting breath tests and evaluating employees for signs of alcohol or drug use. Upon completion of the training, technicians will receive an STT Certification from the FAA.
FAA Certification Process
To obtain certification as a DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technician, applicants must complete an application and submit it to the FAA. This application includes information on the applicant’s education and training, background check results, fingerprinting, and other relevant details. After the application is approved, technicians must pass a written examination by the FAA. Upon successful completion of the exam, technicians will receive their STT certification.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
The primary job duties of a DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technician include the following:
Administering Breath Tests: DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technicians are responsible for administering breath tests to individuals suspected of drinking alcohol before driving. This involves operating an approved DOT breath-testing device, properly recording the results, and preparing a report of the test results according to federal regulations. In some cases, STTs may need to collect and ship specimens for laboratory analysis.
Making Recommendations: DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technicians must be able to make recommendations based on the results of breath tests. This includes making decisions about when an individual should or should not be allowed to drive and other measures that could help reduce the risk of alcohol-impaired driving.
Conduct Training: DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technicians must be knowledgeable about the DOT alcohol testing process and be able to provide training and instruction to other personnel. This includes educating employees about their rights and responsibilities during the testing process, accurately explaining how the breath-testing device works, providing guidance on properly operating the device, and teaching proper techniques for collecting a sample.
Performing Equipment Maintenance and Calibration: An STT must also be familiar with the maintenance and calibration of approved testing devices. This includes frequent inspections, cleaning, and troubleshooting of any malfunctions that may occur. The STT must also ensure compliance with all federal equipment maintenance and calibration regulations.
Compliance: DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technicians need to stay up-to-date on all relevant federal regulations and laws pertaining to alcohol testing. This includes being knowledgeable about updated procedures and policies, ensuring that all tests are conducted in accordance with these standards, and reporting any discrepancies or violations of protocol to the appropriate authorities.
Record Keeping: DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technicians are responsible for keeping detailed records of all breath tests administered. This includes the name of the individual tested, the time and date of their test, the test results, any action taken based on these results, and any other relevant details. These records must be kept securely in compliance with federal regulations.
Administering Other Tests: In some cases, DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technicians may be asked to administer other types of tests related to detecting and preventing alcohol abuse. This could include urine or saliva-based drug testing and cognitive performance assessments. The technician must be familiar with the appropriate procedures for these tests and follow all relevant laws and regulations.
Customer Service: As a DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technician, providing excellent customer service to anyone undergoing the testing process is essential. This includes being professional and courteous, giving clear instructions, answering questions, and ensuring a safe environment where individuals feel comfortable during the test.
It is also important for a DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technician to maintain a positive attitude and be flexible with their schedule to accommodate any needs or circumstances that may arise.
Compensation and Benefits
DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technicians enjoy many benefits, including competitive salaries, health coverage, and retirement plans. As a certified STT, you may also be eligible for bonuses and commissions based on your performance. Additionally, some employers may offer extended vacation time or other perks to attract qualified individuals.
Career Outlook
The growth of the DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technician field is expected to continue to increase over the next decade as more employers recognize the importance of maintaining a safe and drug-free workplace. This growth presents excellent job opportunities for those looking to enter this field and make a difference in the lives of their coworkers and community.
In Conclusion
DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technicians are vital to any workplace, and their responsibilities extend far beyond administering breath tests. These technicians must be knowledgeable about relevant federal regulations, have the skills to maintain and calibrate equipment properly, keep detailed records, provide excellent customer service, and stay up-to-date on all relevant laws associated with alcohol testing. With the right qualifications and attitude, a DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technician can expect an exciting and rewarding career in this field.
By reading through this guide, you should now better understand what it takes to become a certified DOT Alcohol Screening Test Technician. If this is the right career path for you, then it is time to start researching further and preparing yourself for the challenge ahead.