Navigating the complexities of Department of Transportation record-keeping requirements is no easy task. The DOT has strict guidelines governing the way that transportation companies operate. These rules are in place to keep drivers and citizens safe, but because they frequently change, it can be difficult to keep track of them all. One of the requirements…
Your business’s reputation is defined by the proficiency of your staff. Drug testing specimen collectors and Breath Alcohol Technicians (BATs) get training according to the Department of Transportation’s regulations, so a DOT certification course is a solid indicator of proficiency. On the other hand, like most skills, if you don’t use them, you can lose…
A normal heart rhythm, as heard through a stethoscope, has two distinct beats. A whooshing sound can indicate a heart murmur. Blood may be passing through the heart in an atypical fashion. It may be a condition you were born with or a sign of disease. The type of heart murmur and accompanying symptoms and…
Have you ever wondered what tests they run on the DOT exam urine sample? Does it check for drugs and alcohol? Does it test for kidney function? Do they check blood glucose levels? The DOT physical exam is designed to determine if you are physically and mentally well enough to drive heavy commercial vehicles with…
Diabetes is a complex disease that can make it challenging for you to control your blood sugar levels. Over time, elevated blood sugar levels can cause damage to many organ systems throughout the body. Drivers with diabetes are more likely to develop other health problems as well. If you struggle with diabetes, you may wonder…
Yes, lying during your DOT physical can actually lead to jail time. The Department of Transportation requires drivers to have a physical exam to determine whether they are healthy and able to operate a commercial vehicle safely. This requirement keeps both drivers and other motorists safe on the roads. The DOT and the FMCSA take…
The hiring process is an investment in time and money. It drags you away from profit-producing activities and starts a round of training for the new hire. As the new employee learns the ropes, they may work slower. And they often shadow your best employees, who must also slow down to train the newbie. Hiring…
The Department of Transportation doesn’t want to invade a person’s privacy. When an employee comes in for testing, they enter the restroom alone, collect urine in the specimen jar, and hand it in as they leave the restroom. This system works in most cases but relies heavily on honesty and compliance with rules and procedures….
No one likes audits. The word has such a negative connotation, thanks to the IRS. However, DOT audits aren’t about how much money or whether or not you filled out your tax forms correctly. It’s about people going home to their families at the end of the day rather than the morgue. Regular DOT audits…
For those who are or want to become a DOT certified medical examiner, having the right tools is crucial. They will allow you to accurately assess the health and fitness of the commercial drivers you see in your office. While you may already have many of these tools, others that provide unique insight needed during…