Shy Bladder / Shy Lung

A situation where the donor is unable to provide a sufficient urine specimen (shy bladder) or breath sample (shy lung) during a drug or alcohol test.

Key Facts

  • Inability to provide a sufficient urine or breath specimen
  • Donor allowed up to 3 hours and 40 oz of fluids for urine
  • If still unable, must undergo medical evaluation within 5 days
  • Physician determines if legitimate medical explanation exists
  • No valid medical explanation = refusal to test

Under 49 CFR Part 40, when a donor cannot provide at least 45 mL of urine, the collector documents a "shy bladder" situation. The donor is given up to 3 hours and 40 ounces of fluids to attempt another collection. If still unable, the employer must refer the donor for a medical evaluation within 5 business days. A licensed physician determines whether there is a legitimate physiological or pre-existing psychological condition that prevents the donor from providing. If no valid medical explanation exists, the MRO reports the test as a refusal to test. The same process applies to "shy lung" situations where an employee cannot provide an adequate breath sample for alcohol testing.

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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