Positive Drug Test Result

A drug test result indicating the confirmed presence of a controlled substance at or above the established cutoff concentration.

Key Facts

  • Confirmed presence of substance at or above cutoff level
  • MRO must interview donor before reporting to employer
  • Valid prescription may result in downgrade to negative
  • DOT positive = immediate removal from safety-sensitive duties
  • Split specimen retest available at donor request

A positive drug test result means a specimen has tested positive on both the initial immunoassay screen and the confirmation test (GC-MS or LC-MS/MS) at or above SAMHSA-established cutoff concentrations. Before reporting a positive to the employer, the Medical Review Officer (MRO) must attempt to contact the donor for a verification interview to determine if there is a legitimate medical explanation (such as a valid prescription). If no legitimate explanation exists, the MRO reports the result as positive to the employer. Under DOT regulations, a confirmed positive requires immediate removal from safety-sensitive functions and referral to a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).

Drug Test Results & Specimen Issues Compared

Understanding the different outcomes and specimen-related issues in drug testing.

TypeMeaningReported ByNext StepsMRO Role
PositiveConfirmed presence above cutoffLaboratory → MROMRO interview, then report to employerVerify with donor — medical explanation?
NegativeNo substances detected above cutoffLaboratory → MROEmployee clearedReview and release result
DiluteCreatinine 2–20 mg/dL & SG 1.0001–1.0029Laboratory → MROEmployer may request retest (one time)Report as negative-dilute or positive-dilute
Shy Bladder / Shy LungUnable to provide sufficient specimenCollectorMedical evaluation within 5 daysEvaluate medical explanation

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States Covered

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