Pipeline Random Testing Rates for 2018 Increase to 50%

Operators of gas, hazardous liquid, and carbon dioxide pipelines and operators of liquefied natural gas facilities must randomly select and test a percentage of all covered employees for prohibited drug use. Pursuant to 49 CFR 199.105(c)(1) the PHMSA minimum annual random drug testing rate shall be 50 percent of all covered employees for calendar year 2018.

While the minimum annual random drug testing rate was 25 percent of all covered employees for calendar year 2017, paragraph 49 CFR 199.105(c)(4) requires the Administrator to raise the minimum annual random drug testing rate from 25 percent to 50 percent of all covered employees when the data obtained from the Management Information System (MIS) reports required by § 199.119(a) indicate the positive test rate is equal to or greater than 1 percent. In calendar year 2016, the random drug test positive rate was greater than 1 percent. Therefore, the PHMSA minimum annual random drug testing rate shall be 50 percent of all covered employees for calendar year 2018. Learn More

Federal Register Notice