Every commercial vessel must have a plan for Post Accident Drug Testing. Any crew member involved in a Serious Marine Incident (SMI) must take a drug test within 32 hours and a alcohol test within 2 hours. Every commercial vessel that operates more than 2 hours from an open collection site is required to have an Alcohol Screening Device on board for each crew member. For the full rule, please see this Federal Register site. A summary is contained below:

When did Post Accident testing come about and does it affect smaller vessels?

The applicable law was passed by Congress in 1998. The above links provide background on the regulation. The statute requiring that alcohol testing within 2 hours of an SMI does not provide for an exemption based on the number of crew or the crew’s safety history. The rule does allow inexpensive Alcohol Screening Devices (ASDs) to be used provided the proper procedures are taken.

Can I use my usual collection site for a Post Accident Drug Test?

Yes, if it is open within the 32 hour time period. If you need an alternative site for a drug test, Maritime offers an alternate site via a 24/7 hotline provided you have purchased M-PAK^®(s).

What paperwork is required following an SMI?

Coast Guard forms 2692 and 2692b must be completed for the alcohol test. The Chain of Custody form must be filled out for the drug test. There must be instructions for using the alcohol screening device and general instructions on what to do following an SMI. All of the forms and instructions are provided in the M-PAK^®.

Post Accident Drug Testing Compliance Made Easy

Maritime offers its members a M-PAK^® to guarantee full compliance with this rule. It comprises:

The needed DOT approved alcohol testing device (ASD), with instructions for its use

A Chain of Custody (COC) form for the drug test, which includes a full Coast Guard compliant drug test and collection at no fee, provided directions are followed.

Post-accident drug testing instructions including federal forms from the Coast Guard to provide the alcohol test results.

The Coast Guard’s requirement for training on the alcohol screening device’s use is met with the Fact Sheet summary.

The M-PAK^® contains the all of the above in a waterproof and tearproof envelope uniquely suitable for the marine environment.

You can order one for each of your crew members on our ship’s store order form.