Observed Collection
A drug test collection procedure where a same-gender observer directly watches the donor provide the specimen, required in specific DOT circumstances.
Key Facts
- Direct observation of specimen production by same-gender observer
- Required for return-to-duty and follow-up DOT tests
- Required when temperature is out of range (90–100°F)
- Required when specimen appears tampered or substituted
- Observer must be the same gender as the donor
An observed collection requires a same-gender observer to directly watch the donor provide a urine specimen. Under 49 CFR Part 40, direct observation is mandatory for: (1) return-to-duty tests, (2) follow-up tests, (3) when temperature is out of range (below 90°F or above 100°F), (4) when the collector observes conduct suggesting tampering, and (5) when a previous specimen was reported as invalid with no medical explanation. The observer must have the donor raise clothing to mid-torso, lower clothing to mid-thigh, and turn around to confirm no prosthetic devices before providing the specimen.
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