DOT-regulated urine collectors play a critical role in protecting transportation safety. According to ODAPC, collectors must avoid shortcuts, follow every required step, treat employees respectfully, and complete the collection correctly every time. ¹

Why Collection Accuracy Matters

Urine collections can feel routine, but routine work is exactly where mistakes happen. A professional collector must secure the collection site, verify photo identification, explain the process, confirm the correct DOT agency on the CCF, and maintain control of the specimen throughout the collection. ¹

Key Collection Reminders

• Secure the collection site and prevent access to water or items that could be used to tamper with the test.
• Check the employee’s photo ID and explain the process clearly.
• Open the sealed collection cup in the employee’s presence.
• Check for at least 45 mL of urine, temperature between 90–100°F, and signs of tampering. ²
• Always split the single void into 30 mL for Bottle A and 15 mL for Bottle B; never combine separate voids. ²
• Keep unsealed specimens in view of the collector and employee.
• Seal both bottles in the employee’s presence and have the employee initial the seals.
• Complete the CCF carefully and document unusual situations in the Remarks section.
• Ship specimens and transmit required CCF copies within 24 hours or the next business day. ¹

Do Not Forget

A pre-employment no-show may not be a refusal; collectors should report the no-show to the employer. If an employee’s actions appear to constitute a refusal, the collector should tell the employer, but the employer makes the final refusal determination. ¹

Sources

1. ODAPC, “Back to Basics for Urine Collectors”: https://www.transportation.gov/odapc/back_to_basics/urine_collector
2. ODAPC, 49 CFR Part 40 §40.65: https://www.transportation.gov/odapc/part40/40-65