How do I Start a DOT-Approved Drug Testing and Consulting Company?

Starting a drug testing and consulting facility provides a valuable service for employers. Most companies require regular testing of employees, and this is especially the case with federally regulated transportation jobs such as those in aviation, mass transit and trucking. Facility approval through the U.S. Department of Transportation can increase business volume. In addition to allowing for the ability to screen a larger employee base, DOT approval establishes a facility as reputable and operating within local and federal laws. Because of the amount of care and discretion involved in drug testing, these are important factors when a client chooses a facility.

• 1

  Shop for a facility, such as an office setting or a mobile unit. This will help you determine what kind of financing you need to get started. A small in-office lab can cost about $13,000 to set up. Larger, heavily staffed facilities may require $30,000 or more to get started. Write a business plan to stay within a budget. Look for a facility with a professional setting, similar to a doctor's office. If clients feel uncomfortable in your office, they are not likely to do business with you. Buy secure, refrigerated storage for samples at the facility.

• 2

  Hire staff according to the needs and size of your office. Get a receptionist or office manager if you need help keeping records organized. Any employee involved in the process of sample collection needs to have training and certification as outlined by state and federal laws. Hire employees who are already qualified, or you will be responsible to make sure their training is completed before they start working. Clearly define and post procedures for the proper handling of samples to prevent damage or tampering.

• 3

  Contact the Department of Health and Human Services through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at samhsa.gov. Health and Human Services must inspect the facility and add it to the agency's list of certified labs before the DOT can approve it.

• 4
  Keeping samples in a sanitary and secure environment is a requirement for DOT approval. test tubes image by Ruta Saulyte from Fotolia.com

  Schedule an additional inspection of your lab through the DOT, which will confirm the Health and Human Services certification and requirements specific to DOT approval guidelines. Stay in contact with the agencies on changes in requirements, because they do follow-up compliance checks on a semi-annual to annual basis.